Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) Practice Exam

When should a client be referred to a qualified healthcare professional for medical clearance?

1. Shortness of breath at rest or with mild exertion

2. Increased systolic blood pressure during exercise

3. Muscle soreness lasting 72 hours

4. Increased resting heart rate for days

The correct answer is: Shortness of breath at rest or with mild exertion

Referring a client to a qualified healthcare professional for medical clearance is paramount when they exhibit shortness of breath at rest or with mild exertion. This symptom can indicate underlying health issues that may pose serious risks during physical activity. Shortness of breath that occurs without exertion often suggests potential cardiac or respiratory problems, meaning the client could be at higher risk for complications when participating in exercise or other fitness activities. The other symptoms listed may have varying implications but do not necessarily warrant immediate referral for medical clearance. For instance, increased systolic blood pressure during exercise can be a normal physiological response rather than an immediate concern, depending on other factors like the individual’s overall health and exercise level. Muscle soreness lasting 72 hours, while it may indicate an intense workout, is often part of the normal recovery process and typically does not require medical evaluation unless accompanied by severe pain or other alarming symptoms. An increased resting heart rate for days can also occur due to benign factors like stress, dehydration, or lack of sleep and may not immediately necessitate medical intervention unless it is persistently elevated or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Thus, recognizing the seriousness of shortness of breath makes it a critical factor that requires medical assessment to ensure the safety and health of the client before proceeding