Safety Rules 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 Safety Rules flashcards as text
A client at 36 weeks reports that her amniotic sac ruptured this morning but she has not gone into labor yet. She is asking for a relaxation massage. The therapist should:
Answer: Direct the client to go to the hospital immediately and do not perform massage
Premature rupture of membranes is a medical emergency; the client must go to the hospital immediately, and massage is absolutely contraindicated.
Which of the following sanitation practices is MOST important when providing prenatal massage?
Answer: Washing hands thoroughly before and after each session
Thorough handwashing before and after each session is the most critical and evidence-based infection control measure in massage therapy.
When should a prenatal massage therapist take a blood pressure reading before a session?
Answer: When facility protocol requires it or the client reports concerning symptoms
Blood pressure measurement is within scope in settings with protocols for it, particularly when a client reports symptoms suggestive of hypertension.
A pregnant client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) presents for a session. The safe course of action is:
Answer: Require written physician clearance before providing any massage
A DVT history in pregnancy is a red flag requiring written physician clearance before any massage, as dislodging a clot can be life-threatening.
Which bolster setup is recommended for a side-lying prenatal client to prevent hip and low back strain?
Answer: Pillow between knees and under the top arm and abdomen
Pillows between the knees, under the top arm, and under the abdomen align the pelvis and spine to prevent strain during side-lying sessions.
Why is reflexology on specific foot points sometimes restricted during pregnancy?
Answer: Certain reflex zones correspond to the uterus and ovaries and may stimulate contractions
Uterine and ovarian reflex zones on the foot may stimulate uterine activity, so therapists trained in reflexology apply caution or avoid those zones.
A client in her second trimester reports that her doctor diagnosed her with gestational diabetes but she has no other complications. She may receive prenatal massage if:
Answer: Physician clearance is obtained confirming no contraindications
Gestational diabetes requires physician clearance to rule out associated complications (e.g., neuropathy, hypertension) before massage proceeds.