NCBTMB Client Assessment and Planning 5

Question 1

A client states they had a total knee replacement 8 weeks ago and have been cleared by their orthopedic surgeon for massage. What assessment step is MOST important before beginning?

Accepted Answer

Check skin temperature and color distal to the incision site

Answer

Assessing skin temperature, color, and swelling distal to a recent surgical site helps identify signs of circulatory compromise or infection before treatment.

Question 2

Which of the following BEST describes the purpose of a treatment goal set during client assessment and planning?

Accepted Answer

To establish measurable outcomes that guide treatment decisions and evaluate progress

Answer

Treatment goals provide measurable benchmarks that guide clinical decisions and allow the therapist to objectively evaluate whether the treatment is effective.

Question 3

A client taking NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) for chronic back pain arrives for treatment. The main clinical consideration is:

Accepted Answer

NSAIDs may mask pain, increasing the risk of overworking tissues without client feedback

Answer

Because NSAIDs reduce pain perception, clients may not accurately report discomfort during treatment, increasing risk of tissue damage from excessive pressure.

Question 4

During assessment, a client demonstrates a positive straight leg raise test at 40 degrees with radiating pain down the leg. This result most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

A potential lumbar nerve root compression or herniated disc

Answer

A positive SLR at less than 45 degrees with radicular symptoms strongly suggests lumbar nerve root irritation, often from a herniated disc.

Question 5

A client who is 20 weeks pregnant comes in for her first prenatal massage. The most important assessment consideration specific to pregnancy is:

Accepted Answer

Confirming obstetric provider clearance and assessing for contraindicated positions such as prone

Answer

Prenatal massage requires provider clearance and careful positioning assessment since prone positioning is contraindicated in later pregnancy due to uterine compression risks.

NCBTMB Exam Practice Test

NCBTMB Exam Practice Test

NCBTMB Client Assessment and Planning 5