Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/841282
C h e c k o u t A B M P 's l a t e s t n e w s a n d b l o g p o s t s . Av a i l a b l e a t w w w. a b m p . c o m . 63 As licensed therapists, we are taught to avoid open wounds, to wear gloves when dealing with any bodily fluids we come across, and to always sanitize the tables, sheets, hands, and other tools we use in our profession. How, or why, would this particular knowledge about a client's HIV status change our approach? Our approach should not differ in how we handle the actual massage, nor should it differ in how we handle our cleanup. Would you treat a new mother's release of breast milk onto your sheets any differently than you might treat any other accidental fluid leakage? I hope that no one assumes any differentiation in the cleanup of bodily fluids in the treatment room. TO DISCLOSE OR NOT I believe the only informative questions we should ask clients are those that may pertain to how we approach them when it comes to technique and treatment options. I believe in a need-to-know line of questioning. If my knowledge of any personal issues would adjust my treatment approach, I would need to know. I would venture to guess that most of us are not health- care professionals who work with needles, nor would we have reason to be exchanging bodily fluids. We know what conditions contraindicate direct work or require special care (finger cots, gloves, etc.). If we have further concerns, we ask. Should we come across fluids other than sweat, we err on the side of caution. It's all in our basic training, and there is no need to fan the stigma flame by suggesting any extreme measures or precautions should be taken with this particular segment of the population. When it comes to disclosure about HIV and AIDS, the laws are different in every state, but most are confined to disclosure when dealing with potential sexual partners or medical professionals as it pertains to procedures. Disclosures are further required in some states when going to a dentist, medical professional, or medical facility where prescription medications may be prescribed. Though we are governed by HIPPA, and treat our intake forms as such, most, if not all, laws do not require an HIV-positive person to disclose this information to us. Asking a client if there is any further medical information they wish to share may be a suitable way to approach this situation. This is a highly personal area for people who have HIV or AIDS, and the therapeutic relationship does not qualify as the type of relationship required to exchange this type of information. Though many therapists are respectful toward the information they receive from clients on their intake forms, some, as you can see from some of the aforementioned comments, unwittingly have/ could exercise discriminatory actions or statements. If your concern is about your client's tolerance to massage, this is a discussion you can have as a part of intake; questioning any side effects from medications is also an easy way to open the discussion. There is nothing about HIV that contraindicates massage. Don't add stigma to the already-existing stereotype—educate yourself from credible sources. Do some research, prepare yourself, and address your thought process, your questions, and your concerns. Then, move forward. I welcome your feedback and encourage coversation on this topic. Send your response to editor@abmp.com. Jeremy King is an LMT practicing in xxxx.