If a client requests a service outside your scope, what is the correct course of action?

• A. Politely decline and refer to a licensed professional with the appropriate scope; explain limits.
• B. Perform the service anyway and explain later.
• C. Tell the client to find another practitioner.
• D. Deny the request but proceed with a similar service.

Answer: (A)

Staying within your licensed scope and handling requests by referring to the proper professional is essential. When a client asks for a service outside what you’re licensed or trained to do, the best course is to politely decline and direct them to a licensed professional who has the appropriate scope. Explain the limits of your practice so they understand why you can’t perform that service. This protects client safety, keeps you compliant with regulations, and upholds professional trust.

Why this works: it shows you respect safety and legality, you communicate transparently, and you help the client get the right service from someone qualified. You can still offer available, safe services you are licensed to perform and discuss alternatives that meet the client’s needs within your scope.

The other options aren’t appropriate because they either bypass safety and legal requirements, fail to provide proper guidance, or imply you’ll perform something outside your scope.