← All NCBTMB Flashcard Decks

Client Assessment and Treatment Flashcards

7 cards from real NCBTMB practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Client Assessment and Treatment flashcards as text
  1. During intake, a client mentions chronic fatigue, cold intolerance, and weight gain. The therapist should recognize these as possible symptoms of:

    Answer: Hypothyroidism

    Hypothyroidism is characterized by a slowed metabolism, presenting as fatigue, cold intolerance, and unexplained weight gain.

  2. A client reports a 'pins and needles' sensation along the lateral forearm and into the thumb and index finger. Which nerve is most likely involved?

    Answer: Radial nerve

    The radial nerve supplies the posterior forearm and the dorsal surface of the thumb and first two fingers, matching this distribution.

  3. When assessing a client's breathing patterns, paradoxical breathing (chest falls on inhalation) may indicate:

    Answer: Diaphragmatic dysfunction or respiratory distress

    Paradoxical breathing, where the chest moves opposite to normal mechanics, can indicate diaphragm dysfunction or serious respiratory compromise.

  4. A client has a visibly swollen, hot, and reddened joint in the knee following a sports injury two days ago. The appropriate response is to:

    Answer: Avoid the area and recommend physician evaluation

    Acute inflammation with heat, redness, and swelling is a local contraindication; massage could worsen tissue damage and the client needs medical evaluation.

  5. Which muscle is most commonly assessed for trigger points that refer pain to the temporal region and mimic tension headaches?

    Answer: Upper trapezius

    Upper trapezius trigger points classically refer pain up the posterior neck and into the temporal region of the head.

  6. A client with type 1 diabetes arrives for their appointment and seems confused and shaky. The therapist should first:

    Answer: Offer the client a source of fast-acting sugar and postpone massage

    Confusion and shakiness in a diabetic client suggest hypoglycemia, which requires immediate glucose administration before any treatment.

  7. In the context of massage therapy, what does 'endangerment site' refer to?

    Answer: Areas where major nerves, vessels, or organs are superficial and vulnerable to injury

    Endangerment sites are anatomical areas where nerves, blood vessels, or organs lie close to the surface and can be damaged by direct pressure.