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
A 16-week client reveals she is on low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for antiphospholipid syndrome. The safest massage approach is:
Answer: Light to moderate pressure only; deep work increases bruising risk on anticoagulation therapy
Anticoagulant therapy impairs clotting, making deep-pressure techniques likely to cause bruising or hematoma; lighter pressure is appropriate with medical awareness.
Which scenario best illustrates the difference between an absolute and a relative contraindication in prenatal massage?
Answer: Active preterm labor is absolute; well-controlled hypertension with physician clearance is relative
Active preterm labor poses immediate delivery risk and is absolute, while well-controlled hypertension may permit modified massage with physician approval, making it relative.
A client who is 30 weeks pregnant discloses she has placenta accreta. Which action is most appropriate?
Answer: Obtain specific written clearance from her obstetrician before proceeding with any massage
Placenta accreta is a high-risk condition involving abnormal placental attachment; written obstetric clearance ensures the provider deems massage safe at this stage.
A therapist notices a client has a 'butterfly' facial rash across her cheeks and nose. She also mentions joint pain and fatigue. This presentation may suggest:
Answer: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which flares during pregnancy and requires medical clearance
A malar butterfly rash combined with joint pain and fatigue is classic for SLE, which can flare dangerously during pregnancy and requires physician clearance for massage.
When a client presents with a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) at her prenatal massage appointment, the appropriate action is to:
Answer: Reschedule the appointment and encourage her to contact her healthcare provider
Fever in pregnancy is a systemic contraindication; massage increases circulation and metabolic heat, potentially worsening the fever and compromising fetal wellbeing.
Which assessment finding in a prenatal client would most strongly indicate the need to refer to emergency services rather than simply rescheduling?
Answer: Sudden severe abdominal pain, rigid abdomen, and absent fetal movement
Sudden severe abdominal pain with a board-like rigid abdomen and absent fetal movement are signs of placental abruption, a life-threatening emergency requiring 911, not rescheduling.
A new prenatal client has not seen an OB or midwife yet and is approximately 10 weeks pregnant. She has no known complications. The therapist should:
Answer: Use extra caution with the first trimester and strongly recommend the client establish prenatal care
While first-trimester massage can be performed, unknown underlying conditions make it essential to encourage the client to establish prenatal care and document the recommendation.