informed consent
At an 'initial' consultation (i.e. before you receive any treatment or start lessons) you must give your "informed consent". This involves reading and signing a document with information that outlines the risks of treatment/participation. It may also be necessary to discuss your condition and/or treatment with your doctor, physiotherapist or referring health care practitioner - clients must agree to this and will be informed if this occurs.
Every treatment has some potential risks; For example, massage may cause pain, headaches, bruising, aggravate your condition, leave you feeling sleepy or could create an aromatic response - irritate/photo-sensitive skin, cause blood thinning or euphoria or interact with medications and homeopathic remedies.
Before any treatment, you must be aware that...
- If you are uncomfortable or unsure at any stage during a treatment or lesson, tell the therapist/instructor.
- Both the therapist and the client have the right to refuse or stop any treatment at any time.
- Clients should check their expectations of each treatment's outcome are similar to their therapists' expectations.
Always check with the therapist or instructor if you are not sure of any treatment or lesson outcomes.