NCBTMB Professionalism, Ethics, and Law 4

Question 1

A therapist receives a subpoena for a client's records. The correct action is to:

Accepted Answer

Consult an attorney and notify the client before releasing records

Answer

A subpoena is a legal order, but therapists should consult legal counsel and follow proper procedures, which may include notifying the client.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes 'informed consent'?

Accepted Answer

A process ensuring the client understands and agrees to proposed treatment

Answer

Informed consent is an ongoing process of communication ensuring the client understands the nature, risks, and alternatives to proposed treatment.

Question 3

If a client is intoxicated when they arrive for their appointment, the therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Postpone the session and reschedule when the client is sober

Answer

An intoxicated client cannot give valid informed consent and may be more vulnerable to injury, making postponement the appropriate action.

Question 4

When transitioning a client to a different therapist in the same practice, what is the ethical requirement?

Accepted Answer

Obtain the client's written consent before transferring records

Answer

Even within the same practice, transferring a client's records to a different provider typically requires the client's authorization.

Question 5

A massage therapist diagnoses a client with 'tight hip flexors causing sciatic pain.' This statement is problematic because:

Accepted Answer

Diagnosing a condition is outside the massage therapist's scope of practice

Answer

Diagnosis is the exclusive domain of licensed medical practitioners; massage therapists may observe and describe but cannot diagnose.

NCBTMB Exam Practice Test