Professional Practice, Safety, and Scope of Practice
This domain tests whether you can operate as a professional within lawful, ethical, and safe boundaries. Expect questions on scope of practice, contraindications, referral, consent, insurance, confidentiality, and honest marketing.
Scope and safety
- Yoga teachers teach yoga; they do not diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Screen with intake forms, ask about injuries, pregnancy, surgery, and medical conditions, and keep information confidential.
- Refer suspected medical or mental-health issues to licensed professionals. In an emergency, call emergency services and follow your training.
- Obtain informed consent for touch and explain alternatives. Maintain professional boundaries; avoid dual relationships that exploit power.
- Carry appropriate liability insurance, follow local regulations, keep records securely, and complete continuing education.
- Market accurately: no cure claims, no detox promises, no false certification claims.
Worked example
A student says yoga will replace their blood-pressure medication. Reasoning: do not confirm or adjust medication; explain that yoga may support relaxation but is not a treatment, encourage them to speak with their physician, and offer gentle breath and chair options. Document the conversation and referral.
Traps
Do not give medical advice disguised as alignment cues. Do not promise confidentiality you cannot keep in a shared studio. Do not use waivers to excuse negligence. Avoid claiming official affiliation with a certification body.