Domain 4
What is the recommended amount of personal liability insurance a trainer should carry? $5 million $3 million $2 million $1 million
Correct answer: $2 million A personal trainer should carry professional liability insurance that covers up to $2 million per occurrence. This applies even when working in a business as an employee, where the personal trainer may be covered under the business owner's policy. Liability insurance that covers up to $2 million per occurrence allows for the best protection.
From a litigation standpoint, why are the obligations and duties of a fitness facility heightened? A fitness facility is a paid service A fitness facility is a business/invitee relationship A fitness facility is a customer service business A fitness facility is a healthcare business
Correct answer: A fitness facility is a business/invitee relationship When a business invites someone onto the premises, the invitee must be provided a safe place. It is up to the business to regularly inspect the premises for the presence of dangerous conditions. When exercising reasonable care, it is important that the business perform regular inspections and establish a policy or guidelines for the inspections and a method of record-keeping for evidence of these inspections.
Emergency preparedness policies and procedures need to include all of the following aspects except: Regular maintenance of first aid equipment A manual of injury prevention exercise programs 911 calling instructions CPR and AED certifications
Correct answer: A manual of injury prevention exercise programs While injury prevention is important, it is not an emergency situation. These policies and procedures should be developed by the ownership and management of the personal training business. Most importantly, these policies and procedures need to be shared with every employee or independent contractor. Documentation of these is also imperative. CPR and AED certifications, regular maintenance of first aid equipment, 911 calling instructions, and emergency escape routes are aspects that should be included with the emergency preparedness policies and procedures.
All of the following are areas of exposure to liability except: An under-qualified personal trainer The equipment used The method of keeping and protecting records The degree of emergency preparedness
Correct answer: An under-qualified personal trainer Legal considerations should be made in order to reduce the likelihood of exposure to liability when developing a comprehensive risk management plan. Potential areas that can lead to liability include the following: Physical setting where program activities occur The equipment used The nature and quality of training techniques Advice Services rendered The degree of emergency preparedness and responsiveness The method of keeping and protecting records
In a fitness facility, who must be certified in CPR? Any staff responsible for working directly with exercise participants Facility owner only Management only Every staff member
Correct answer: Any staff responsible for working directly with exercise participants Any member of a fitness staff that is responsible for providing instruction and leadership in any specific modes of exercise should be trained in CPR. For professional competency, personal trainers should always maintain a CPR certification. Personal trainers should make an effort to familiarize themselves with any affiliated organization's emergency plan. More importantly, personal trainers need to be ready to implement the plan's procedures in case of an emergency.
Which of the following is within the scope of practice for a trainer? Applying basic first aid techniques Setting a bone break Diagnosing a client with hypertension Administering medications
Correct answer: Applying basic first aid techniques Basic first aid certification is a required complement with a CPR certification. Applying basic first aid techniques, such as icing and bandaging, falls within a personal trainer's scope of practice. However, any medical treatment that goes beyond basic first aid, such as diagnosing, setting a bone break, or administering medication, is considered outside the scope of practice for a personal trainer.
A personal trainer should provide exercise information in a manner that relates to which of the following factors? Based on ease of use Based on scientific evidence Based on popularity Based on latest trends
Correct answer: Based on scientific evidence All certified personal trainers are required by ACSM to base their training regimens on scientifically backed evidence. In other words, trainers should not blindly follow fitness trends or propose concepts that haven't been backed by scientific research. They are advised to sift through and carefully evaluate the scientific evidence and separate it from the marketing ploys.
In the case of a negligence claim, all of the following are elements a plaintiff must prove in order to prevail in a lawsuit except: Damages Breach of duty Breach of contract Proximate cause
Correct answer: Breach of contract A personal trainer should take basic precautions, such as developing an emergency action plan and an injury prevention plan, to ensure that every training setting is reasonably safe. If a negligence claim is filed, the four elements that a plaintiff must prove in order to prevail in a lawsuit are the following: Duty Breach of duty Proximate cause Damages A personal trainer can avoid litigation by reaching established standards for safe premises and service.
Negligence claims must provide proof in four areas in order to win a lawsuit. Which area is involved when a personal trainer fails to provide an appropriate standard of care? Damages Scope of practice Breach of duty Proximate cause
Correct answer: Breach of duty Negligence claims must provide proof in four areas to succeed in winning a lawsuit. These areas are: Duty: This describes the expectation of behavior or action to provide a specific service or level of safety, especially for an individual operating within their scope of practice. Breach of duty: This involves the failure to provide the expected service or behavior or failure to provide a standard of care reasonably expected in the specified situation or environment. Proximate cause: This requires the proof that the breach of duty led to the incident or injury. Damages: This describes the injury or incident in question.
What should a personal trainer do if the training facility surface is wet and cannot be dried before a session begins? Dry the surface and start the session late Cancel the session and reschedule Cancel the session and refund their money Only perform exercises that do not require standing
Correct answer: Cancel the session and reschedule Injuries related to falls on the training premises are the number one claim against fitness facilities and fitness professionals. Through a regular practice of inspection and warning management of any hazards in the workout area and correction, personal trainers can maintain reasonably safe conditions. It is always best to be careful and reschedule if conditions are deemed unsafe, rather than continue training in the presence of known dangers and risk injury.
Plantar fasciitis is characterized as what kind of injury? Impingement Chronic inflammatory condition Sprain Acute condition
Correct answer: Chronic inflammatory condition Plantar fasciitis is typically associated with heel pain, where the fascia on the underside of the foot (plantar fascia) connects to the heel bone (calcaneus). This is a common condition that can have different causes. The fascia gets irritated (inflamed) when it's overloaded due to a circumstance such as flat feet or a tight Achilles tendon. Carrying too much bodyweight (obesity) can also overload the plantar fascia and lead to pain. Treatment often requires physical therapy and involves stretching and strengthening the muscles of the calf. Medication and even surgery may be necessary in certain cases. As a personal trainer, if your client experiences symptoms of plantar fasciitis, they should be referred to a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and direction of treatmen
Plantar fasciitis is characterized as what kind of injury? Impingement Chronic inflammatory condition Sprain Acute condition
Correct answer: Chronic inflammatory condition Plantar fasciitis is typically associated with heel pain, where the fascia on the underside of the foot (plantar fascia) connects to the heel bone (calcaneus). This is a common condition that can have different causes. The fascia gets irritated (inflamed) when it's overloaded due to a circumstance such as flat feet or a tight Achilles tendon. Carrying too much bodyweight (obesity) can also overload the plantar fascia and lead to pain. Treatment often requires physical therapy and involves stretching and strengthening the muscles of the calf. Medication and even surgery may be necessary in certain cases. As a personal trainer, if your client experiences symptoms of plantar fasciitis, they should be referred to a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and direction of treatment.
Education about appropriate clothing and footwear should include all of the following except: Clothing should be breathable Clothing should allow for movement Footwear should not show signs of excessive wear Clothing should be form-fitting to ensure it doesn't get caught on equipment
Correct answer: Clothing should be form-fitting to ensure it doesn't get caught on equipment A personal trainer should make sure clients understand why appropriate clothing and footwear are necessary to prevent injury and enhance training. Instead of suggesting form-fitting or tight clothing, the trainer should recommend clothing that is comfortable, breathable, and allows for movement. Wearing shoes that are not ill-fitting or show excessive signs of wear is also necessary to reduce the likelihood of injury.
Guidelines for professional standards of behavior and conduct are often outlined in which of the following? Code of ethics Professional liability Scope of practice Business plan
Correct answer: Code of ethics A code of ethics generally provides a set of guidelines for appropriate behavior according to specific core values as well as the standards of the position and the industry. Examples of standards or guidelines that might be included in a code of ethics are: Honesty and transparency regarding professional certifications and professional limitations Practicing only within the scope of practice of the individual's certification Keeping client information confidential Respecting the rights of others, including clients an colleagues Abiding by a code of ethics and specific standards of behavior helps to ensure that an individual is maintaining a high level or professional conduct.
Clothing should include which properties to minimize risk for a client? Comfortable, breathable, and allowing movement Comfortable, formfitting, and allowing movement Tight, breathable, and warm Loose, breathable, and warm
Correct answer: Comfortable, breathable, and allowing movement It is a part of the responsibility of a personal trainer to educate clients about appropriate clothing and footwear. This will help to prevent injury and enhance training. Clothing should be comfortable, breathable, and allow for movement. In addition, personal trainers need to check footwear and should not allow clients to train with shoes that don't fit properly, have excessive wear, or aren't appropriate for the exercise session.
Which type of equipment must be used in a fitness facility to reduce the likelihood of litigation? Private grade equipment New equipment Commercial grade equipment Properly maintained equipment
Correct answer: Commercial grade equipment Commercial grade equipment is designed to withstand the wear and tear of multiple users. And, regularly serviced commercial grade equipment is necessary to reduce risk. Lawsuits have occurred because of facilities using home grade equipment.
What is a personal trainer's first line of defense when it comes to risk management? Using a release, waiver, or informed consent Creating written policies and procedures Carrying professional liability insurance Developing a business plan
Correct answer: Creating written policies and procedures To effectively manage and minimize risk, a personal trainer's first line of defense should be to create written policies, procedures, and forms that meet industry standards and guidelines. What's more, a trainer should also maintain detailed written records that document behaving in compliance with these policies. This ensures they are making every effort to not be negligent. Other important risk management strategies include using a release, waiver, or informed consent, as well as obtaining professional liability insurance.
Which of the following activities falls outside the scope of a personal trainer? Developing meal plans Talking about calories Addressing protein intake Discussing diets
Correct answer: Developing meal plans Personal trainers should not develop or provide meal or diet plans for clients because it falls outside the scope of practice. Meal planning falls within the scope of practice for registered dietitians. With that said, personal trainers can teach the fundamentals of nutrition. They can also assist with a weight loss program that would include both calorically modified diets and exercise. Having a referral system set up with a registered dietitian is a good idea for a personal trainer because nutrition is often an area of concern for individuals.
If a personal trainer wants to perform within their scope of practice, which of the following actions would be inappropriate? Developing exercise regimens and programs Diagnosing cardiovascular disease risk Performing screening on clients to determine their readiness to exercise Helping clients set, modify, and adhere to goals
Correct answer: Diagnosing cardiovascular disease risk It is outside the scope of a personal trainer to diagnose any health ailment or disease. The personal trainer has a wide range of potential responsibilities. It is within the scope of a personal trainer to do the following: Screening clients to determine their readiness to exercise Developing exercise regimens and programs Helping clients set, modify, and adhere to goals
What should a personal trainer do if he or she develops a romantic relationship with a client? Be open and honest about it Discuss it with their boss Discontinue and refer client to another personal trainer Make sure professional and discreet behavior is maintained
Correct answer: Discontinue and refer client to another personal trainer A common area of potential liability for personal trainers is sexual harassment claims. The personal training and client relationship can be seen as an intimate one and, because of this, it is necessary to remain professional and vigilant at all times. If a personal relationship develops with a client, the professional relationship should be discontinued, and the client should be referred to another trainer.
Which of the following must occur before progressing the exercise intensity of a client? Have a minimum of six months of exercise Discuss it with a physician Perform a cardiovascular and/or muscular strength assessment Discuss the progression with the client
Correct answer: Discuss the progression with the client In order to understand the client's feeling of readiness to increase intensity and to further assess whether the timing is appropriate to do so, a personal trainer should always discuss progression with a client first. It's also essential for a personal trainer to keep detailed records to determine when a possible progression could occur. These are measures of reducing risk surrounding exercise progressions.
The number one claim made against fitness facilities and professionals involves: Falling Harassment Negligence Abuse
Correct answer: Falling Injuries related to falls on the training premises is the number one claim against fitness facilities and professionals. A personal trainer must take reasonable precautions and foster safe conditions by performing a regular inspection for, and correction of, any hazards in the workout area. Otherwise, the trainer could be deemed negligent and therefore liable or responsible.
To avoid an injury with free weights, what should a personal trainer constantly be wary of? Number of repetitions Load Personal bests Fatigue
Correct answer: Fatigue To avoid client injury, a personal trainer must have open communication with the client to provide feedback. Just as important is listening when the client communicates that they are reaching fatigue. Another way that a personal trainer can ensure client safety is to educate the client about appropriate progression and not doing too much too soon.
Which of the following methods can help a personal trainer appropriately respond to feedback provided by a client? Having weekly goal check-ins Being vigilant about maintaining confidentiality Having strong lines of communication Keeping a written record of all workouts
Correct answer: Having strong lines of communication It is the personal trainer's responsibility to provide reasonable care to prevent injury, such as when a client is lifting weights. One reasonable step that a personal trainer can take to avoid a negligent incident is to foster open communication with each client and to encourage feedback, as well as listening when a client communicates they are reaching fatigue.
All of the following professionals are people a personal trainer could refer a client to except: Health food store owner Wellness coach Massage therapist Athletic trainer
Correct answer: Health food store owner Ideally, personal trainers should become a part of a community network of mutually referring health care professionals including doctors, physical therapists, athletic trainers, exercise physiologists, massage therapists, and wellness coaches. Retail fitness, nutrition, and health food stores are viable sources to potentially market to and gain a larger clientele business from. The personal trainer might recommend the health food store to a client; however, he wouldn't refer them to the owner.
Aside from slip-and-fall claims, what is the next most common claim made against trainers and fitness facilities? Injuries from using equipment Sexual harassment Insufficient results Negligence
Correct answer: Injuries from using equipment The second leading claim against trainers is when a person gets injured using exercise equipment, according to ACSM. A personal trainer should make sure a piece of equipment is safe before having a client use it. A trainer who neglects to take reasonable precautions, which are determined on the basis of an evaluation of facts surrounding an incident, could be considered negligent and therefore, liable or responsible.
What is the main reason a personal trainer should avoid selling supplements? It is outside their scope of practice to do so The high price of supplement cost for the client Lack of certainty of the ingredients in supplements It takes away potential profits from the personal trainer
Correct answer: Lack of certainty of the ingredients in supplements Supplements are not subject to government regulation. Due to this, not even registered dietitians can be certain about the ingredients contained in many supplements. Additionally, an individual can never be certain regarding who may have severe allergic reactions to any particular ingredient. This could carry with it the risk of death. Therefore, to proactively ensure client safety, ACSM recommends that personal trainers avoid recommending or selling supplements.
Which type of insurance should be obtained by a personal trainer to manage risk effectively? Health insurance Life insurance Liability insurance Worker's insurance
Correct answer: Liability insurance For the most protection, a personal trainer should carry professional liability insurance, even when working in a business as an employee, where they may be covered under the business owner's policy. Purchasing liability insurance enables the personal trainer to practice responsibly and feel confident that their business will not be destroyed by one situation. As a minimum, two million dollars per occurrence is recommended.
Which of the following falls outside of the scope of practice for a personal trainer who doesn't have additional qualifications or credentials? Teaching clients the fundamentals of nutrition Screening clients to determine readiness to exercise Meal planning Recognizing patterns of disordered eating
Correct answer: Meal planning It's important for a personal trainer to understand and observe their scope of practice. Conducting individual meal planning and diagnosing injuries fall outside of a personal trainer's scope of practice and should be handled by an appropriate nutrition or medical professional. It can be dangerous and illegal for a personal trainer to perform services that are not within their scope of practice. Personal trainers can educate clients about the basic nutritional concepts and share the recommended general guidelines for nutrient intake. The ability to recognize disordered eating would enable a personal trainer to encourage a client to seek help or refer them to an appropriate nutrition or medical professional. It can be beneficial for a personal trainer to maintain a network of these professionals, as referrals can be provided and received. Personal trainers can use pre-screening questionnaires and interviews to determine an individual's readiness for exercise and can refer them for further medical screening when necessary.
A client's health team is likely to include all of the following professionals except: Medical doctor, pilates instructor Psychologist, chiropractor Physician, occupational therapist Nurse practitioner, registered dietitian
Correct answer: Medical doctor, pilates instructor When screening and interviewing potential clients to determine their readiness for exercise, it might be necessary to refer them out for a diagnosis or for specific exercise guidelines to follow. This usually involves communicating with the clients' health care team, which can consist of medical doctors, physicians, nurse practitioners, chiropractors, registered dietitians, psychologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.
What is the first step a personal trainer should take in developing a risk management strategy? Obtain any and all required certifications and qualifications Pre-screen all potential clients Obtain professional liability insurance Develop an emergency action plan
Correct answer: Obtain any and all required certifications and qualifications Although it's important to obtain professional liability insurance, develop an emergency action plan and pre-screen all potential clients, the first step that a personal trainer needs to take is to ensure they are qualified to perform the services offered. Without the necessary qualifications, services performed would not be within their scope of practice. Obtaining and maintaining certifications helps to ensure that a fitness professional is qualified to perform personal training services and that their education and knowledge is up-to-date with the standards of the industry.
An incident form should include all of the following except: Facts surrounding the incident Opinions regarding what may or may not have caused the incident Signature of the person who experienced the incident Names and contact information of any witnesses
Correct answer: Opinions regarding what may or may not have caused the incident In addition to having an emergency plan, personal trainers need to document any accident immediately after it occurs by using an incident report form. Only the facts that surrounded the incident should be included on this form. It should not contain any opinions regarding what may or may not have led to it. Any names and contact information of witnesses should be included, as well as the signature of the person who experienced the incident.
All of the following are steps a personal trainer can take to prevent foreseeable accidents with exercise equipment except: Use equipment appropriate for the client Provide proper instructions and supervision Perform a set of the exercise before the client does Use reliable equipment
Correct answer: Perform a set of the exercise before the client does Minimizing risk is a primary role for any personal trainer. It goes without saying that the exercises and machines used during a training session should always be appropriate for the client. A personal trainer can take many steps to prevent foreseeable accidents with exercise equipment. Using safe and routinely maintained equipment in the appropriate manner with proper instruction and supervision is imperative to minimizing client risk.
Beyond a visual inspection to ensure a safe training environment, what other assessment of the facility can a personal trainer do to minimize risk? Perform a listening test Look through the policies and procedures manual Perform an actual-use test Ask customers if they see any issues
Correct answer: Perform an actual-use test For a more in-depth inspection of equipment that isn't reliant solely on a visual inspection, personal trainers should perform an actual-use test. Fitness business owners are obligated to identify and eliminate risks that are reasonably foreseeable. Business owners must also take actions to appropriately warn patrons of any persistently hazardous conditions. In testing for these conditions, the personal trainer should attempt to use the equipment as a client would.
Which common disorder in the hip can produce symptoms of sciatica? Arthritis Osteoporosis Piriformis syndrome Bursitis
Correct answer: Piriformis syndrome Piriformis syndrome is a common hip myofascial disorder that can be caused by improper biomechanics (movement patterns) and overuse. It is often accompanied by pain and symptoms of neurologic issues along the backside of the leg. The sciatic nerve runs through the piriformis muscle, which sits on the backside of the hip. With overuse or irritation, the piriformis muscle tissue can become hypertonic (overactive), and put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing these symptoms.
Low back pain is commonly associated with core musculature that is deconditioned and lacking structural integrity. Which muscles are most capable of contributing to appropriate posture, alignment, and stability of the lumbar spine? Lateral lumbar flexors Anterior lumbar rotators Posterior lumbar extensors Anterior lumbar flexors
Correct answer: Posterior lumbar extensors Low back pain is one of the most commonly injured areas and affects 60-80% of the population. Back pain can have many causes, including some that are not musculoskeletal, including medical concerns such as cancer and kidney infection. In many cases, the cause of low back pain can often be difficult to diagnose. However, some common causes of musculoskeletal low back pain include disruptions of lumbopelvic rhythm as well as poor posture or poor biomechanics. Isolated lumbar extension has shown to improve function as well as to decrease low back pain symptoms and pain. This type of training can help increase the structural integrity of the torso and help create increased stability and improved posture.
Which area of a risk management program requires a personal trainer or fitness facility to closely monitor the facility for issues such as faulty equipment or a wet floor? Premise liability Emergency response Negligence Informed consent
Correct answer: Premise liability There are a few different areas to consider when developing a risk management strategy as a personal trainer. It's important to maintain education and certification (including CPR, AED and first aid) as well as to obtain professional liability insurance to cover things like injuries that occur during participation in personal training services. In addition, it's important to ensure that the training environment is also safe. This includes strategies to prevent an individual from slipping and falling, which includes keeping equipment in proper storage areas and monitoring for concerns such as a wet floor. Premise liability places the responsibility for providing a safe training environment onto the personal trainer or facility providing the service. Negligence is when an individual did not meet an expected standard of care, and informed consent refers to a form signed by an individual which agrees to an acceptance of risk by a participant (usually a client). All fitness professionals and facilities should have an emergency response procedure in place in order to respond quickly and effectively in case of emergency.
Professional liability insurance provides protection from all claims except: Sexual harassment Product liability Breach of contract Negligence
Correct answer: Product liability Professional liability insurance provides a wide range of protection from claims such as: Negligence Breach of contract Sexual harassment Injuries to a person or to property Most insurance policies for personal trainers do not include protection for product liability. An example of product liability is supplementation. Due to the unknown ingredients in many supplements, not even registered dietitians can be certain of the effects of certain substances. Therefore, to proactively protect client safety and to minimize the risk of professional liability, personal trainers should avoid recommending and/or selling supplements.
All of the following are methods of ensuring client safety except: Referring a client to a physician if the client reports continuous pain Programming a specific exercise to treat pain Treating a client who was cut on a piece of equipment Maintaining a current CPR certification
Correct answer: Programming a specific exercise to treat pain It is essential to know what falls within a personal trainer's scope of practice. One of the most important things to ensure is client safety. Here are some ways a trainer can aid in maintaining a safe environment for clients: Maintaining a current CPR/AED certification Having a referral network in place Implementing emergency preparedness policies such as basic first aid administration and maintaining equipment necessary for the administration of first aid Programming a specific exercise to treat pain is something that falls under the scope of practice of a medical professional.
All of the following are methods of reducing risk when using weight machines for exercise except: Inspecting the equipment before each use Giving the client proper instructions and supervision Documenting exercise variables Progressing the intensity at each exercise session
Correct answer: Progressing the intensity at each exercise session Weight machines carry a reduced risk of injury because the client's body is more stable and movement is more restricted than with free weights. With that said, progressing an individual too soon is a common cause of injury. The trainer should follow a conservative and responsible plan to increase intensity while maintaining open communication with the client. The risk of injury can be reduced by a personal trainer's documentation of the weight, the number of sets, and the number of repetitions; giving the client proper instructions and supervision; and inspecting the equipment before use.
Which of the following forms can be used to prove the safety and effectiveness of a personal trainer's exercise program? Health history questionnaire Proper charting PAR-Q Incident report
Correct answer: Proper charting The personal trainer can show improvements, note any injuries or other issues, and provide a framework for continued success by properly charting. Additionally, documenting all activities and events can help the personal trainer provide optimal service while simultaneously reducing liability risk.
What risk management factor is the most important when using cardiovascular equipment with new clients? Allowing clients to set up the equipment themselves Properly instructing and supervising Using non-weight-bearing equipment Documenting speed, resistance, and duration
Correct answer: Properly instructing and supervising Proper instruction and supervision are required from a personal trainer because a client may injure themselves if they are not familiar with the equipment. Numerous litigation cases include instances in which a client was not able to keep up with the movement, lost control, and fell from a treadmill. This is why proper supervision is so important.
What action could lead to an ACSM personal trainer's having their certification revoked? Failing to attract any clients Providing exercise information based on personal opinion Educating their clients about key nutritional strategies Obtaining additional certifications
Correct answer: Providing exercise information based on personal opinion The code of ethics supports all certified and registered ACSM professionals. Any ACSM professional may be disciplined or lose his or her certification for performing actions that go against the principles set forth in this code. The executive council of the ACSM Committee on Certification and Registry Boards are the individuals responsible for making this final decision. It is imperative that every personal trainer be aware of the principles of the ACSM. For example, an ACSM professional should provide evidence-based exercise information and not just based on personal opinion. Acceptable principles and standards for an ACSM professional to uphold include the following: Educating their clients about nutritional strategies Obtaining another certification Practicing within their scope of practice While failing to attract new clients is not ideal, it does not go against the principles set forth in this code of ethics.
Which of the following practices of a personal trainer could be considered unethical? Using tactile spotting Providing evidence-based exercise programs Recommending ergogenic aids Educating clients about key nutritional strategies
Correct answer: Recommending ergogenic aids The area of supplements is where claims related to violation of the scope of practice occur most frequently. Personal trainers must avoid selling or recommending supplements in order to protect client safety and minimize the risk of professional liability. A personal trainer should provide evidence-based exercise programs and educate clients about key nutritional strategies. Prescribing specific meal plans is outside a personal trainer's scope of practice. Tactile spotting has been linked to sexual harassment claims, but this risk can be eliminated by always asking for permission before placing your hands on a client for spotting purposes.
What should a personal trainer do if a client is asking for medical advice? Diagnose the issue Answer to the best of their ability Admit they do not have the answer Refer to a healthcare professional
Correct answer: Refer to a healthcare professional As a manager who oversees a staff of personal trainers, it is crucial to set standards for delivering quality training services. Honesty and scope of practice standards should be heavily emphasized. If a client is asking their personal trainer for medical advice or a diagnosis, the personal trainer must not overstep their scope of practice. In this situation, it is best for a personal trainer to consult their referral network and refer the client to a healthcare professional.
Which of the following must be covered when obtaining a client's informed consent? Risks associated with the training program Schedule of the training program Goal-setting for the training program Cost of the training program
Correct answer: Risks associated with the training program An informed consent form can explain the risks of participating in physical activity to a prospective client. By signing the form, the client indicates that he knowingly understands and appreciates these risks. The client also voluntarily assumes responsibility for taking these risks. The informed consent document should be covered before any actual training takes place.
Carrying professional liability insurance will protect a personal trainer from all of the following situations except: Breach of duty Sexual harassment Negligence Selling of supplements Show ExplanationNext Question
Correct answer: Selling of supplements Professional liability insurance offers protection for a broad spectrum of claims including: Negligence Sexual harassment Breach of duty The exception is supplements. The problem with supplements is the fact that most supplement manufacturers do not carry insurance coverage. Unfortunately, this means that there is no third-party insurance that can offer some protection if a personal trainer incurs liability for a client's supplement misuse. A personal trainer should carry $2 million per occurrence as a recommended amount. It's also important to have it, even when working in a business as an employee.
A personal trainer needs to refer a new client to a physician for a medical release. What does the trainer need to obtain in order to provide the physician with any information about the client? Signed authorization for release of information Medical clearance form Waiver of liability Informed consent
Correct answer: Signed authorization for release of information A personal trainer has a responsibility to protect client confidentiality. This involves safeguarding any personal information about the client, including health information and contact information as well as any documentation or notes taken during pre-screening, assessments or client training sessions. It can be beneficial to share this information between different service providers (personal trainer, physician, physical therapist), but a signed authorization for release of information must be obtained prior to sharing any confidential information. This also includes sharing client testimonials or progress pictures and information for marketing or other purposes.
Other than ensuring that the training surface is dry, what can a personal trainer do to prevent falls during an exercise session? Warn clients of potential tripping hazards Introduce each piece of equipment to the client Plan which equipment will be used during the session Store equipment that is not in use
Correct answer: Store equipment that is not in use When equipment is not in use, personal trainers should follow a procedure of proper storage for equipment. Regardless of the training setting, it's important to designate specific storage places for equipment so that items are not left where people can trip over them. There are different types of storage for different types of equipment due to their various shapes and sizes.
Litigation involving personal trainer violations of scope of practice most commonly occurs with which product or service? Implementing certain exercise plans Demonstrating exercise techniques Supplement recommendations Exercise equipment recommendations
Correct answer: Supplement recommendations The area of supplements is where claims related to violations of scope of practice occur most frequently. Not even professional registered dietitians can be certain about the ingredients in various supplements because they are not subject to government regulation. To proactively protect client safety and to minimize the risk of professional liability, personal trainers should avoid recommending or selling supplements to clients.
Claims pertaining to violations of the scope of practice commonly occur for trainers when they give advice on which of the following topics? Water intake Supplements Body fat reduction Exercise classes
Correct answer: Supplements Claims related to violation of scope of practice occur most frequently in the area of supplements. This is because nutrition topics, such as supplements, usually fall outside of the personal trainer's scope of practice. Even registered dietitians cannot be completely sure about the ingredients in many supplements because supplements are not subject to government regulation. To proactively protect client safety and minimize the risk of professional liability, personal trainers should avoid recommending and/or selling supplements.
If a personal trainer claims to work with certain niche populations, what must he or she ensure? That they have past clientele testimonials about their work That they keep written records of all certifications, continuing education, and work-related experience That they keep written records of informed consent, work-related experience, and liability insurance That they offer special promotions to those populations
Correct answer: That they keep written record of all certifications, continuing education, and work-related experience By being properly qualified for the job and all related tasks, a personal trainer can reduce the risk of injury to clients and the risk of potential liability. Therefore, it is critical that a personal trainer keep a written record of all of the following: All certifications Continuing education Work-related experience By doing so, they have evidence of sufficient preparation to work with special populations.
All of the following statements are true regarding industry guidelines relating to matters of facility and equipment setup, inspection, maintenance, repair, and signage, except: The guidelines minimize risk The guidelines encourage proactive safe behavior The guidelines prevent injuries The guidelines are legal requirements
Correct answer: The guidelines are legal requirements The second leading reason for claims against personal trainers is injury resulting from the misuse of equipment, according to insurance providers. ACSM and other professional organizations offer industry guidelines regarding matters of facility and equipment setup, inspection, maintenance, repair, and signage. It is true that these standards and guidelines do not have the force of law behind them; however, they can be used as evidence. For example, a testimony of the personal trainer's duties and adherence to the standard of care. Keep in mind that the law does not envision that accidents never happen. Instead, these standards are in place to eliminate preventable injuries.
Which factor of a client's footwear does not increase the risk of injury? Thin soles Poor fit Excess wear Unsuitability for given activity
Correct answer: Thin soles Clients should have shoes that are comfortable, well-fitting, and suitable for the variety of activities scheduled for the exercise session. It's important that personal trainers check to make sure a client is wearing appropriate footwear in order to minimize risk. The following factors can increase the risk of injury: — Poorly fitting shoes — Shoes with excessive wear — Shoes that are not suitable for the chosen activity
Besides the safety of the client, why is it important for a personal trainer to have CPR training? To have a better understanding of a well-prepared emergency plan To avoid a legal claim for failure to provide an emergency response To better manage risk To be better able to market themselves to potential clients
Correct answer: To avoid a legal claim for failure to provide an emergency response There is always the potential for a claim to be filed against a personal trainer who failed to provide an emergency response, if this led to a preventable death. It's important to remember that physical activity can be strenuous and it creates a situation where there is a foreseeable risk that the administration of CPR will be needed. With that said, to date, no specific case has involved a claim against a personal trainer for wrongful death in a situation in which a client has had a heart attack or other medical emergency and died while under the supervision of a personal trainer.
What is the main purpose of HIPAA? To protect a client's confidentiality To protect a personal trainer from liability To ensure a client's safety during a workout To ensure the client is aware of the risks associated with exercise
Correct answer: To protect a client's confidentiality An emerging area of potential liability for a personal trainer is the failure to protect client confidentiality. The personal trainer must keep detailed records, including results from the first client prescreening and notes documenting each training session. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is meant to ensure that healthcare professionals have strict policies regarding the safety and security of these private records.
What is the purpose of a waiver or release of liability document for a personal trainer? To protect the trainer from liability in case of negligence To protect the trainer from liability in case of lack of results To protect the trainer from liability in case of injury while in transit to facility To protect the trainer from liability in case of equipment failure
Correct answer: To protect the trainer from liability in case of negligence For the client to knowingly waive or release the personal trainer from liability for any acts of negligence, a waiver or release of liability document is used. In other words, even if the personal trainer is negligent, the prospective client waives their right to sue the personal trainer.
All of the following are potential risks for injury while using a weight machine except: A weight plate slipping A pin not being properly inserted Too heavy of a dumbbell A cable breaking
Correct answer: Too heavy of a dumbbell A dumbbell being too heavy certainly has the potential for injury; however, a client would not be using a dumbbell on a weight machine. On a weight machine, the most likely causes of injury include: A weight plate slipping A cable breaking A client falling because a pin was not properly inserted or a cable broke
Failing to provide safe premises as a personal trainer is an example of breaking which area of law? Tort law Litigation Negligence law Criminal law
Correct answer: Tort law Tort law is the area of law that regulates civil wrongdoing. Under theories of tort law, it is required for any business owner, who allows people to enter the property, to provide a reasonably safe environment. Premises liability is the area of tort law that regulates these issues.
The code of ethics for ACSM-certified and registered professionals states that an ACSMCP can disclose their affiliation and credentials in all the following situations except: When implying ACSM endorsement Listing it on their business cards Orally, provided it is currently accurate Informing the public during a presentation
Correct answer: When implying ACSM endorsement Any ACSMCP may disclose their affiliation with ACSM credentialing in any context, oral or documented, provided it is currently accurate. In doing so, no ACSMCP may imply college endorsement of whatever is associated with the disclosure unless expressly authorized by the college. ACSMCPs may also list their affiliation with ACSM credentialing on their business cards or during a presentation to the public.
Which of the following statements about client confidentiality is true? The Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) always extends to personal trainers Written authorization is required to release any client information Testimonials can be used for marketing without client consent To protect client confidentiality, personal trainers should not keep written notes
Correct answer: Written authorization is required to release any client information A potential liability for a personal trainer is the failure to protect client confidentiality. It is essential that the trainer protects confidentiality in order to prevent potential harm to a client's reputation. For liability protection, the personal trainer must keep a variety of detailed written records including the first client prescreening and notes documenting each training session. A system should be in place that protects the complete confidentiality of all user records and meetings. What's more, a client's records should be released only with their signed authorization. It is still unclear whether some HIPAA policies extend to personal trainers, but it is important to be familiar with the law and how to properly release personal information to a third party.
