Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/790815
Once you've taken the ethics quiz on pages 36–37 in this issue, come back to check your answers. Questions #5 and #10 were already answered in the column and are not included here. Practice responding with appropriate language and behaviors to each of these situations: 1. Avoid counseling a client, even when the client attempts to get counseling from the therapist. A: "I'm happy to listen but I'm not qualified to give advice. I can refer you to an excellent psychotherapist who is qualified to give advice." 2. Refuse a client massage due to a condition that contraindicates treatment. A: "I'm sorry. I know you're looking forward to getting a massage today, but your condition contraindicates treatment. Your condition could be exacerbated by the massage and you might feel worse instead of better." 3. Refuse a client's request for massage because the therapist suspects the client is under the influence of an illegal drug or alcohol. A: "Based on some of the behaviors you're exhibiting, I suspect you might be under the influence of alcohol right now. It would not be safe for you to receive massage because your perceptions are distorted. I'm afraid we'll have to cancel this session." 4. Require a parent or guardian to be present during massage of a minor when the parent or guardian seeks to drop the child off alone during the session. A: "I understand that you'd like to go and get some errands done while your daughter receives massage. However, she is under the age of 18 and therefore a guardian or parent must be with her during the session. This is for her safety, and also for my safety as a therapist." 6. Decline a client massage when appropriate. A: "I don't believe that massage is indicated for your condition and it may not be safe for you to receive. I can refer you to a physical therapist who might have the proper qualifications to work with your condition." 7. Represent one's massage qualifications honestly and point out the limitations of massage treatment. A: "As a massage therapist, I can manipulate soft-tissue structures such as muscle and fascia for relaxation and pain relief. However, I cannot adjust bones or make nutritional recommendations for supplements that might benefit your condition." 8. Refer clients to other health-care providers when appropriate. A: "Your sports injury may be serious. I believe you need to see an orthopedic doctor or physical therapist for an in- depth assessment. I have a number of professionals I can refer you to. Here are their names and phone numbers." CLASSROOM TO CLIENT education What's Your Ethics IQ? Part 3: The Answers By Anne Williams and Karrie Osborn