American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

What should a massage therapist do first when they find an unconscious client on the floor who is not breathing?

1. Yell for someone to call 911

2. Begin CPR

3. Call 911

4. Call 911, monitor the client, and wait for paramedics to arrive

The correct answer is: Yell for someone to call 911

In a situation where a massage therapist discovers an unconscious client who is not breathing, the priority is to ensure that emergency medical help is summoned as quickly as possible. The correct first step is to call 911 because timely access to emergency services can mean the difference between life and death. The therapist must act swiftly to alert 911, ensuring that professional help is on the way while addressing the emergency situation. While initiating CPR is crucial in the case of an unresponsive individual not breathing, it should only commence after calling for help or when you are sure someone else has made that call. Waiting for a response and monitoring the client, as suggested in another option, is necessary but must follow the immediate action to mobilize emergency services. Directing someone else to call for help might not guarantee timely assistance and could delay critical care, whereas making that call right away ensures that first responders are dispatched while life-saving measures are undertaken.