Contraindications & Risk Factors Flashcards
7 cards from real PMC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Contraindications & Risk Factors flashcards as text
During which trimester is the supine hypotensive syndrome (aortocaval compression) most likely to occur and why?
Answer: Third trimester, because the enlarged uterus compresses the vena cava when supine
By the third trimester the uterus is large enough to compress the inferior vena cava in the supine position, reducing venous return and causing hypotension.
A client in her second trimester reports that she had a pulmonary embolism two years ago. This information indicates:
Answer: A history of thromboembolism is a high-risk factor requiring medical clearance before massage
A personal history of pulmonary embolism signals an elevated risk of clotting; medical clearance is mandatory before initiating prenatal massage.
Which site is considered a local contraindication on ALL prenatal clients regardless of trimester?
Answer: SP6 (Spleen 6) acupressure point on the inner ankle
SP6, located four finger-widths above the medial malleolus, is traditionally avoided in pregnancy because sustained pressure may stimulate uterine contractions.
A client at 32 weeks reports sudden onset of bright red, painless vaginal bleeding this morning. She says she feels fine now. The therapist should:
Answer: Advise her to call her OB immediately and not perform massage until cleared
Painless bright red bleeding in the third trimester is a classic presentation of placenta previa; immediate medical evaluation is required regardless of current symptom relief.
Severe symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) in a prenatal client primarily requires the therapist to:
Answer: Use caution with hip abduction, adduction, and any technique that stresses the pubic joint
SPD involves instability of the pubic symphysis; movements that force the joint apart or together can worsen pain and inflammation.
Which condition would be classified as a relative contraindication, allowing massage after medical clearance?
Answer: Well-controlled gestational hypertension with physician approval
Well-controlled gestational hypertension with documented physician approval is a relative contraindication where modified massage may proceed safely under medical guidance.
A pregnant client at 24 weeks reports her doctor diagnosed her with polyhydramnios. How does this affect massage planning?
Answer: Massage requires medical clearance and extra care with positioning due to the enlarged uterine size and associated risks
Polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) enlarges the uterus more than typical and is associated with fetal and maternal complications, warranting medical clearance and careful positioning.