Client Assessment and Safety Flashcards

What is the recommended position for a client during a standard reflexology session?

Answer: Reclining comfortably with feet slightly elevated at practitioner's working height

Clients are typically in a reclined or semi-reclined position with feet at the practitioner's working height, ensuring comfort and proper access to the plantar surface.

Which ethical obligation must a reflexologist fulfill before beginning any session?

Answer: Obtain informed consent from the client

Informed consent requires explaining the nature of reflexology, what the session involves, and obtaining the client's agreement before beginning treatment.

If a client has a pacemaker, what is the reflexologist's recommended approach?

Answer: Obtain medical clearance and avoid any electrical or vibrational devices; use standard manual techniques with care

Clients with pacemakers may receive manual reflexology after medical clearance, but any electrical tools must be avoided as they can interfere with the device.

What information should a reflexologist document after each client session?

Answer: Client response, areas of tenderness, techniques applied, and any post-session advice given

Complete session notes should record client responses, tender areas, techniques used, and advice given to track progress and ensure continuity of care.

A client presents with severe osteoporosis. How should this affect the reflexology session?

Answer: Use significantly lighter pressure to avoid risk of fracture, especially around bony prominences

Severe osteoporosis increases fracture risk, so pressure must be significantly reduced, particularly around bony prominences of the feet and ankles.

Under which US state regulation framework do most reflexologists practice legally?

Answer: State-level massage therapy or cosmetology boards, or specific reflexology exemptions where they exist

Reflexology regulation varies by US state — some require massage therapy licensure, some have specific reflexology registration, and some states have no specific regulation.