American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

What should a massage therapist do if they notice signs of abuse or neglect in a client?

1. Report the situation to the authorities

2. Discuss it with the client immediately

3. Document it in the client file but take no further action

4. Confront the client about the evidence collected

The correct answer is: Report the situation to the authorities

When a massage therapist notices signs of abuse or neglect in a client, the appropriate course of action is to report the situation to the authorities. This is crucial because the therapist has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of the client, especially if they are a minor or vulnerable individual. Reporting to the authorities ensures that trained professionals can investigate the situation and take necessary actions to protect the client. This decision aligns with the legal and ethical obligations of healthcare providers to advocate for the welfare of their clients, especially in cases of suspected harm. By involving authorities, the therapist is taking a proactive step that prioritizes the client's safety over other considerations, such as discussing the issue with the client or merely documenting it without taking action. This is particularly important because discussing it directly with the client might put them in a vulnerable position or escalate the situation, while merely documenting without reporting could leave the client at continued risk.