Professionalism, Ethics, and Law 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 Professionalism, Ethics, and Law flashcards as text
A client discloses they are HIV-positive before a massage session. What is the legally and ethically correct response?
Answer: Treat the client the same as any other unless contraindicated
HIV status alone is not a contraindication, and refusing service based on it may constitute illegal discrimination under the ADA.
Which document describes the mutual expectations, boundaries, and policies agreed upon between therapist and client?
Answer: Informed consent agreement
The informed consent agreement outlines policies, risks, and client rights, forming the ethical foundation of the therapeutic relationship.
A massage therapist posts a photo of a celebrity client on social media without permission. This violates which ethical principle?
Answer: Confidentiality
Sharing identifiable client information without consent breaches confidentiality, a core ethical and legal obligation.
Under HIPAA, who is considered a 'covered entity' in the massage therapy context?
Answer: Therapists who electronically transmit health information for billing
HIPAA applies to covered entities that electronically transmit health information, such as for insurance billing.
A client asks you to massage a severely bruised area they say 'doesn't hurt much.' What is the ethical course of action?
Answer: Explain the contraindication and avoid the area
A massage therapist must apply clinical judgment; severe bruising is a local contraindication regardless of client preference.
Which behavior best demonstrates professional boundaries in therapeutic massage?
Answer: Maintaining draping standards consistently for all clients
Consistent professional draping regardless of personal feelings is a cornerstone of maintaining appropriate therapeutic boundaries.
A therapist's license lapses but they continue practicing for two weeks. This is best described as:
Answer: Unlicensed practice, which is illegal
Practicing massage therapy without a current valid license is unlicensed practice and is illegal in all US jurisdictions.