College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

Before a therapist performs an initial assessment, what is a crucial step to ensure patient safety?

1. Gathering medical history

2. Setting treatment goals

3. Completing a pain scale assessment

4. Requesting consent for treatment

The correct answer is: Requesting consent for treatment

A crucial step before a therapist performs an initial assessment is requesting consent for treatment. In the healthcare field, informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle and legal requirement that ensures patients are aware of and agree to the procedures and therapies they will undergo. This process involves providing the patient with adequate information regarding their condition, the proposed assessment and treatment, any potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. Obtaining consent not only respects the autonomy of the patient but also establishes trust and communication between the therapist and the patient. This step is essential in promoting a safe therapeutic environment, as patients who feel informed and respected are more likely to engage openly in their care. While gathering medical history, setting treatment goals, and completing a pain scale assessment are all important components of the overall assessment process, they should not precede the acquisition of informed consent. Without consent, proceeding with any form of assessment or treatment could lead to ethical dilemmas and potential legal issues, making consent the priority for patient safety.