American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

What is a potential issue if a therapist is taking narcotics more frequently than prescribed?

1. Treating the client under the influence of narcotics

2. Treating the client after abdominal surgery

3. The surgery should have been reported to the state board

4. The therapist should not work while taking any kind of medication, even if taking it as prescribed

The correct answer is: Treating the client under the influence of narcotics

Taking narcotics more frequently than prescribed can lead to a scenario where the therapist may be under the influence of these substances during client treatment sessions. This raises significant ethical and professional concerns, as operating under the influence can impair judgment, coordination, and responsiveness, negatively affecting the quality of care provided to clients. Furthermore, it poses safety risks both for the therapist and the client, as well as potential legal issues for the therapist's practice. In the context of the other options, while they relate to the therapist's responsibilities and practice, they do not address the immediate danger presented by a therapist who is impaired due to narcotic use. Treating clients after abdominal surgery or the reporting of surgery to the state board reflects procedural or administrative considerations rather than the direct impact on client safety and care quality. The idea that a therapist should not work while taking any medication, regardless of the situation, may not take into account circumstances where prescribed medications are being used appropriately and do not impair the therapist’s ability to provide service. In essence, the crux of the matter lies in the autonomy and safety of the therapist when under the influence of narcotics due to misuse.