American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

When screening new patients, what is the best approach?

1. You should ask multiple personal questions.

2. You should establish a relationship by inviting the client to dinner.

3. You should ask the client about their sexual activity.

4. You should be professional and prepared.

The correct answer is: You should be professional and prepared.

The best approach when screening new patients is to be professional and prepared. This is essential in establishing a trusting and respectful environment. A professional demeanor helps clients feel safe and comfortable while discussing their needs and concerns. Being prepared means having a clear understanding of what information you need to gather, which can include medical history, any specific issues they want to address, and understanding their expectations from the massage therapy session. This approach not only facilitates effective communication but also demonstrates your commitment to providing high-quality care. Proper preparation allows the practitioner to tailor their services to each client's unique situation, ensuring a more effective and personal treatment plan. Other approaches may come with risks or may not be appropriate in a professional setting. For instance, asking multiple personal questions could lead to discomfort for the client, and inviting a client to dinner blurs professional boundaries. Discussing sexual activity may be necessary in certain contexts, but it should always be approached with sensitivity and respect, making it less ideal as a general screening method for all clients.