American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

After a treatment session, what should a massage therapist do following direct contact with a client?

1. Wipe their hands with antibacterial wipes

2. Wash their hands, forearms, and elbows

3. Wash their hands

4. Wash their hands, forearms, elbows, and upper arms

The correct answer is: Wash their hands, forearms, and elbows

Washing hands, forearms, and elbows after direct contact with a client is essential to ensure proper hygiene and prevent cross-contamination. The reason this practice is so important lies in the potential for pathogens or bodily fluids to transfer during a massage session. By washing not only the hands but also extending this practice to the forearms and elbows, the therapist ensures that any contaminants that may have come into contact with those areas are thoroughly removed. This comprehensive cleaning helps in maintaining infection control protocols, thereby safeguarding both the therapist's health and that of future clients. While simply washing hands alone is a good practice, it may not be sufficient if the therapist has had extensive contact with the client, as contaminants can linger beyond just the hands. The inclusion of washing forearms and elbows reflects a thorough approach to hygiene, aligning with professional standards in massage therapy and healthcare settings.