What type of questions should be asked to avoid leading or making assumptions when assessing a client's condition?

When assessing a client's condition, using open-minded questions is vital for fostering a safe and supportive environment that encourages honest dialogue. Open-minded questions allow clients to express themselves in their own words without feeling constrained or directed towards a particular response. This approach helps gather more comprehensive and nuanced information about the client's experiences and symptoms.

Open-minded questions typically begin with phrases like "What do you feel about..." or "Can you describe...," which invite clients to share their thoughts freely. This method helps avoid assumptions and biases, as it gives clients the opportunity to provide details that may not have been considered.

In contrast, closed-ended questions limit responses to simple yes/no or one-word answers, which can restrict understanding. Leading questions suggest a particular answer and may influence the client’s response, while direct questions might come across as confrontational or too narrow, potentially leaving out important context. Therefore, prioritizing open-minded questioning is essential for effective assessment in massage therapy.