When encountering a contraindication, what action should you take?

• A. Ignore it if the client insists.
• B. Document decisions and any precautions or medical clearance required.
• C. Proceed without note.
• D. Cancel the appointment for all clients.

Answer: (B)

Safety and risk management guide action when a contraindication is present. If something about a client raises a potential risk, you pause and assess what can safely be done. You review the contraindication, decide whether the treatment can be modified, postponed, or if medical clearance is needed before proceeding. You then document your decision, note any precautions you’ll take, and record whether medical clearance is required. This creates a clear, traceable record and helps protect the client from harm as well as you as the practitioner. If medical clearance is obtained, you can adjust the plan or proceed with the agreed precautions; if not, you defer or choose an appropriate alternative. Ignoring a contraindication or proceeding without documentation compromises safety and professional standards. Cancelling the appointment for all clients is not appropriate because contraindications are individual and may vary from case to case.