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

What action should be taken when a patient presents with a throbbing headache, stiff neck, and a red, spotty rash on their torso?

1. Recommend over-the-counter pain medication

2. Suggest they seek immediate medical attention

3. Advise resting and hydration

4. Schedule a follow-up appointment in a week

The correct answer is: Suggest they seek immediate medical attention

When a patient presents with a combination of a throbbing headache, stiff neck, and a red, spotty rash on their torso, it may indicate a serious medical condition, such as meningitis or another type of infection that could require urgent care. The presence of these symptoms, particularly the stiff neck and the rash, should raise immediate concern for conditions that might involve inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord or other systemic infections. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial in this scenario because timely intervention can significantly impact the outcome, particularly if it is an infection that may worsen without treatment. While other options like recommending over-the-counter pain medication or advising rest may seem supportive, they do not address the potential severity of the patient's condition and could delay necessary medical intervention. Overall, the priority in such cases is to ensure the patient receives the appropriate assessment and treatment from medical professionals, making immediate medical attention the best course of action.