A client asks the trainer to diagnose persistent knee pain. What is the appropriate response?
- ARefer, and share the trainer's best guess at the cause so the client can tell the physician
- BRefer to a massage therapist, since persistent knee pain is usually muscular
- CExplain that diagnosis is outside scope and suggest waiting two weeks to see if it settles
- DExplain that diagnosis is outside a trainer's scope and refer
Show answer and explanations
Answer
D
Diagnosing injuries is outside a fitness professional's scope. The trainer explains this and refers the client to a qualified healthcare provider.
A
Offering a probable cause is still a diagnosis, even when it comes with a referral.
B
Assuming the pain is muscular is itself a diagnosis, and persistent pain needs a clinician who can evaluate it.
C
Naming the scope limit is right, but persistent pain should be referred now rather than watched.
D
Diagnosing injuries is outside a fitness professional's scope. The trainer explains this and refers the client to a qualified healthcare provider.