● Fever, flu-like symptoms ○ Fever is a contraindication to techniques with circulatory intent. ● Mood swings ○ Assess medication compliance. ○ Remain neutral; accommodate behavior within acceptable boundaries, workplace policies. ● Fatigue ○ Shorten session duration; limit techniques that require client participation. Utilizing drug information ● Investigate possible side effects for each drug. ● Visually assess skin for areas to avoid. ● Identify cautions/contraindications. ● Describe available modalities, techniques. ● Discuss and obtain informed consent for safe, effective treatment. Apply information to the treatment plan: 1. Select Case Profile: identify cautions, contraindications created by health conditions. 2. Research each medication; summarize its side effects. 3. Draft a treatment plan that addresses: 4. Cautions, contraindications. The focus of both parties should be on goals of the therapeutic plan based on the standards of conduct for massage and bodywork. These include consent and appropriate boundaries when working on sensitive issues of the body. These also include what part of the therapist’s body touches the client, and ensuring to not touch the client accidently with loose clothing or hair. Protocols for draping must be in compliance with local laws, and standards of conduct. These regulations must be followed, including: moving draping; working only above draping; discussing clothing options with clients; and informing clients that they may stop the massage at any time if they feel uncomfortable. Strict adherence to ethical protocols for personal space will put clients at ease and allow clients to receive the benefits of treatment as well as promote trust, and set boundaries for an effective and safe therapeutic relationship. 5. Medication side effects. 6. Therapeutic intentions. 7. Assessments, positioning/draping. 8. Modalities/techniques.
○ Hyperglycemia ▪ Refer for evaluation by primary health care practitioner. ● Respiratory : Shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness, coughing: ○ Elevate client’s torso to 45 degrees when supine. ○ Address hypertonic muscles of respiration. ○ Slow pace of strokes, to encourage deeper respiration. ● Lymphatic/immune system, edema ○ Elevate affected extremities, except if congestive heart failure (CHF) is diagnosed. ○ Increased susceptibility to infection; decreased ability to fight infection. ○ Defer massage if you or a household member has been exposed to any infectious condition. ○ Follow Standard Precautions for prevention of transmission of pathogens in treatment space. Additional side effects ● Disrupted thermoregulation ○ Warm? Use lotion, 100 percent cotton sheets; gently blot excess perspiration; be aware that chilling may follow. ○ Chilly? Warm client directly, not treatment room ● Insomnia, agitation ○ Slow pace of strokes; avoid friction, vibration, percussion. ○ Ask if client prefers to be lulled to sleep or stimulated at session end. Personal space Safety is not limited to hygiene, skill, and scope of practice concerns. When considering the importance physical boundaries in maintaining a safe environment for the client, the generally accepted rule for personal space in Western cultures ranges from eighteen inches up to three feet between depending on the situation and personal preference. This range of personal space is reduced as therapists greet clients and review their intake information. Massage involves skin to skin contact that eliminates the accepted range of personal space completely. Massage implies that the amount of personal space during a massage is negated, but both the therapist and client must adhere to the physical boundaries outlined in ethical standards of practice.
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND PROMOTION
● Making appropriate referrals, if necessary. Any negative perceptions of a massage professional’s marketing materials or advertisements tend to reflect poorly on colleagues and the profession as a whole. Promotional materials should: ● Include the therapist’s license number, place of business, and phone number. ● Refrain from using fear or guilt as motivational tactics. ● Avoid unrealistic, misleading, or sensational claims, or promises to cure specific conditions or ailments. ● Avoid using words or images that might be construed as sexual in nature. ● Adhere to truth-in-advertising standards. Today massage and bodywork practitioners may serve as part of a multidisciplinary health care team and have the responsibility to collaborate with other health care providers to help clients achieve wellness goals. Clients regard their health professionals as role models for health and wellness, which adds to the importance of practitioners to maintain a healthy lifestyle and balance in their lives. To be regarded as health care professionals, practitioners must exemplify ethical standards in their daily practice and in the community.
Conducting business in an ethical manner involves treating people fairly and decently, using skills and time effectively, and adhering to high standards. A massage therapist’s promotional materials, record-keeping, financial dealings, and conduct in day-to-day business matters should also follow ethical guidelines. Maintaining a practice in good standing means: ● Filing local, state, and federal taxes. ● Discussing and/or displaying fee schedules and billing practices prior to a first meeting. ● Making the client’s welfare the paramount concern. ● Following generally accepted accounting practices. ● Keeping accurate financial records. ● Maintaining patient confidentiality. ● Respecting and collaborating with other professionals. Self-care techniques Massage and bodywork practitioners are faced with a number of mental and physical challenges that may cause stress due to managing a career or business, helping clients with varying conditions, and providing care that requires a high degree of strenuous, physical activity. Practitioners must prioritize self-care to reduce stress, and maintain health and stamina to provide the best care for clients. A regular program of self-care can reduce high blood pressure, improve digestion, promote healthy sleep, and improve your memory or concentration (AMTA, 2016f).
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Book Code: MTX1323
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