Massage Therapist Professional Practice Guidelines 2

Question 1

A client discloses they are currently undergoing chemotherapy. What is the most appropriate initial action for a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Obtain physician clearance before proceeding with treatment

Answer

Clients undergoing chemotherapy require physician clearance because massage can affect circulation, lymph flow, and medication absorption in ways that may be contraindicated.

Question 2

Which documentation practice best protects a massage therapist legally and professionally?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining detailed SOAP notes for every session

Answer

Detailed SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) notes provide a legal record of treatment, demonstrate professional care, and support continuity of treatment.

Question 3

When a client asks a massage therapist for their personal opinion on a specific medical diagnosis, the therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to an appropriate licensed healthcare provider

Answer

Providing medical diagnoses or opinions is outside the scope of practice for massage therapists, and clients should be referred to qualified healthcare professionals.

Question 4

A massage therapist notices bruising of unknown origin on a child client. What ethical obligation applies?

Accepted Answer

Follow mandatory reporting laws for suspected abuse

Answer

Massage therapists are mandated reporters in most U.S. states, legally required to report reasonable suspicion of child abuse to the appropriate authorities.

Question 5

Which of the following constitutes a dual relationship that massage therapists must carefully manage?

Accepted Answer

Providing massage to a close personal friend

Answer

Treating close friends creates a dual relationship that can blur professional boundaries, complicate objective assessment, and compromise the therapeutic relationship.

Massage Therapist Practice Test

Massage Therapist Practice Test

Massage Therapist Professional Practice Guidelines 2