Safety, Ethics & Professional Standards Flashcards
7 cards from real CMT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Safety, Ethics & Professional Standards flashcards as text
A client discloses during intake that they are currently taking warfarin. Which action is most appropriate before proceeding with deep tissue work?
Answer: Consult with the prescribing physician and modify pressure accordingly
Warfarin is an anticoagulant that increases bruising and bleeding risk, requiring physician consultation and pressure modification.
Which of the following best defines the ethical principle of 'non-maleficence' as applied to manual therapy?
Answer: Avoiding actions that cause harm to the client
Non-maleficence means 'do no harm' and obligates therapists to avoid techniques or actions that could injure or harm the client.
A therapist notices a client has an undiagnosed lump near the cervical lymph nodes. The correct response is to:
Answer: Document findings and refer the client to a physician
Undiagnosed lumps near lymph nodes are red flags requiring medical referral, as they may indicate serious pathology.
When is it legally and ethically acceptable for a CMT to enter into a dual relationship with a client?
Answer: Dual relationships are generally discouraged and should be avoided whenever possible
Dual relationships blur professional boundaries and create conflicts of interest that can compromise therapeutic effectiveness and client welfare.
Which scenario represents a violation of client confidentiality?
Answer: Mentioning a client's name and diagnosis to a colleague in a public elevator
Discussing identifiable client information in a public setting without consent is a direct violation of confidentiality and HIPAA.
A client asks their CMT to perform a procedure that is outside the therapist's scope of practice. The best response is to:
Answer: Decline and refer the client to an appropriate licensed provider
Performing procedures outside one's scope of practice is unethical and potentially illegal regardless of client consent.
Under HIPAA regulations, a covered entity may disclose protected health information without patient authorization in which situation?
Answer: To report a communicable disease to a public health authority
HIPAA permits disclosure to public health authorities for disease surveillance and control without patient authorization.