PMC Safety, Contraindications & Precautions 3

Question 1

Before beginning massage on a pediatric client, which document is REQUIRED from a parent or legal guardian?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent and health history intake form

Answer

Informed consent from a parent or legal guardian along with a complete health history intake is legally and ethically required before treating any minor.

Question 2

A child with Down syndrome may present with atlantoaxial instability, which requires the therapist to:

Accepted Answer

Avoid cervical flexion and obtain physician clearance for neck work

Answer

Atlantoaxial instability in children with Down syndrome means excessive cervical flexion can compress the spinal cord; physician clearance and avoidance of cervical flexion are essential.

Question 3

Essential oils should generally be avoided in children under what age without specific pediatric aromatherapy training?

Accepted Answer

2 years

Answer

Essential oils are generally considered unsafe for children under 2 years due to immature liver detoxification and high skin absorption; specialist guidance is required.

Question 4

What condition requires the therapist to avoid all vigorous percussion or tapotement over the chest in a child?

Accepted Answer

Asthma with active bronchospasm

Answer

Active bronchospasm during an asthma attack can be worsened by chest percussion, making vigorous tapotement contraindicated during acute episodes.

Question 5

A therapist notices unexplained bruising in multiple stages of healing on a child's body. The appropriate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Document observations and follow mandatory reporting protocols

Answer

Massage therapists are mandated reporters in most US states; unexplained bruising in various stages is a red flag for abuse requiring immediate documentation and reporting.

PMC - Pediatric Massage Certification Practice Test

PMC - Pediatric Massage Certification Practice Test

PMC Safety, Contraindications & Precautions 3