As a social worker in the oncology unit of a general hospital, you frequently work with clients who are
dying. Ms. Tina is an intelligent, articulate 88-year-old woman who has suffered from intense pain for several
months. She has informed you that she has hoarded powerful analgesic medicines and intends to take her own life
during the night. She says that she wants to say goodbye to you and to thank you for all your help during this time.
However, she asks that you please do not interfere with her plans.
What will be an ideal response?
ANS: Students' answers will vary. Several responsibilities may be included under the general duty of care. For
example, as a professional social worker, you must be available and accessible to the clients you serve. Clients
should be informed about whom to contact and what to do in case of an emergency. Similarly, before taking a
vacation, a medical leave, or a sabbatical, you should inform clients well in advance and arrange for equivalent,
substitute professional coverage. You must also take action to ensure the physical protection of clients you
determine to be (1) imminently dangerous to other persons, (2) imminently dangerous to themselves, or (3) so
gravely disabled as to be unable to provide minimal self-care (Everstine & Everstine, 1983, p. 232). You might have
to arrange for careful supervision or perhaps hospitalization of such clients.
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Professional behavior should be guided by:
A) ?personal values and ethical guidelines. B) ?professional values and ethical guidelines. C) ?past professional behaviors. D) ?professional relationships with clients.
What is the perspective used most often in school social work practice?
a. Systems perspective b. Strengths perspective c. Critical theory perspective d. Ecological perspective
It is helpful to the supervision process if students present their questions
a) extemporaneously. b) in writing. c) in an individual session. d) in a group session.
What is the mean number of children?
a. 1.5 b. 2.4 c. 624 d. 1147