NCBTMB Ethics, Laws, and Business Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client who you see regularly for relaxation massage mentions they have been experiencing persistent, sharp pain in their shoulder and asks you to diagnose the problem.
What is the most ethical and professional response?

Accepted Answer

Explain that diagnosing medical conditions is outside the massage therapy scope of practice and refer them to a physician.

Answer

Use your knowledge to suggest it might be a rotator cuff tear and proceed with deep tissue work.

Answer

Inform the client that you can't diagnose but can perform some special tests to figure it out.

Answer

Tell the client to take some anti-inflammatory medication before their next session.

Question 2

During a session, a client discloses sensitive personal health information. The next day, the client's spouse calls and asks about the details of the session and what was discussed. According to privacy principles like those in HIPAA, what is the appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Politely state that due to client confidentiality, you cannot share any information without the client's explicit written consent.

Answer

Provide a general summary of the session without mentioning the sensitive details.

Answer

Ask the spouse to confirm their identity and then share the information, assuming they have a right to know.

Answer

Tell the spouse you will have the client call them back to discuss it.

Question 3

A long-time client, who is also a personal friend, asks if you would be willing to trade massage sessions for some professional accounting services for your business. This situation is best described as:

Accepted Answer

A dual relationship.

Answer

A conflict of interest.

Answer

A power differential.

Answer

Standard business bartering.

Question 4

A massage therapist creates a new advertisement for their practice. Which of the following statements would be considered an unethical marketing claim?

Accepted Answer

"Our therapeutic massage can eliminate your chronic fibromyalgia pain."

Answer

"Specializing in techniques to help manage stress and promote relaxation."

Answer

"Certified in manual lymphatic drainage and prenatal massage."

Answer

"Offering a tranquil environment for your wellness journey."

Question 5

Which of the following is an essential component of the principle of informed consent that must be obtained before beginning a massage session?

Accepted Answer

The client's agreement to the proposed treatment plan after the therapist has explained the techniques, potential benefits, and draping procedures.

Answer

A detailed list of all the therapist's certifications and continuing education courses.

Answer

A signed waiver releasing the therapist from all liability in case of injury.

Answer

A verbal confirmation that the client has paid for the session in advance.

Question 6

According to general professional standards and various state regulations, what is the most commonly recommended minimum period for a massage therapist to retain a former adult client's records?

Accepted Answer

7 years after the client's last visit.

Answer

1 year after the client's last visit.

Answer

3 years after the client's last visit.

Answer

Indefinitely.

A client who you see regularly for relaxation massage mentions they have been experiencing persistent, sharp pain in their shoulder and asks you to diagnose the problem.What is the most ethical and professional response?

A client who you see regularly for relaxation massage mentions they have been experiencing persistent, sharp pain in their shoulder and asks you to diagnose the problem.
What is the most ethical and professional response?