NCBTMB Professionalism, Ethics, and Law 2

Question 1

A client discloses they are HIV-positive before a massage session. What is the legally and ethically correct response?

Accepted Answer

Treat the client the same as any other unless contraindicated

Answer

HIV status alone is not a contraindication, and refusing service based on it may constitute illegal discrimination under the ADA.

Question 2

Which document describes the mutual expectations, boundaries, and policies agreed upon between therapist and client?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent agreement

Answer

The informed consent agreement outlines policies, risks, and client rights, forming the ethical foundation of the therapeutic relationship.

Question 3

A massage therapist posts a photo of a celebrity client on social media without permission. This violates which ethical principle?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Sharing identifiable client information without consent breaches confidentiality, a core ethical and legal obligation.

Question 4

Under HIPAA, who is considered a 'covered entity' in the massage therapy context?

Accepted Answer

Therapists who electronically transmit health information for billing

Answer

HIPAA applies to covered entities that electronically transmit health information, such as for insurance billing.

Question 5

A client asks you to massage a severely bruised area they say 'doesn't hurt much.' What is the ethical course of action?

Accepted Answer

Explain the contraindication and avoid the area

Answer

A massage therapist must apply clinical judgment; severe bruising is a local contraindication regardless of client preference.

NCBTMB Exam Practice Test