Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)

A chiropractor writes a prescription for a patient to receive 30-minute massage sessions once a week focused on the cervical area. If the client requests to modify the session to include the legs and feet, what should the practitioner do?

1. Call the chiropractor for permission

2. Modify the treatment plan and inform the chiropractor

3. Continue with the original treatment plan

4. Have the client sign a new treatment plan

The correct answer is: Continue with the original treatment plan

The situation presented involves a client requesting modifications to a treatment plan that has been prescribed by a chiropractor. The most appropriate course of action for the practitioner is to adhere to the original treatment plan outlined by the chiropractor and continue with the specified focus on the cervical area. This decision is grounded in the principle of respecting the authority and directives of the healthcare provider who initiated the treatment. The rationale for this approach is that the chiropractor has evaluated the patient's condition and deemed the cervical area as the focus for treatment. Making modifications without consulting the chiropractor could potentially compromise the effectiveness of the treatment plan or interfere with the patient's recovery. It is crucial for practitioners to maintain clear communication and coordination with other healthcare professionals, especially when treatment has been prescribed. In essence, sticking to the established treatment plan ensures that the practitioner respects the professional judgment of the chiropractor while also prioritizing the patient's needs based on the prescribed care. This method promotes a collaborative approach to patient care, which is essential in multi-disciplinary healthcare settings.