LMSW Practice Test

If a client is using safe sex techniques but does not disclose her HIV status, the best intervention for the social worker is to:

1. Contact her partners directly

2. Refer her to the Department of Public Health

3. Explain the potential risks of her behavior

4. Respect her confidentiality and support her self-determination

The correct answer is: Contact her partners directly

The most appropriate intervention for the social worker in this scenario is to respect the client's confidentiality and support her self-determination. Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in social work that helps build trust between the client and the social worker. By supporting the client's rights to make her own decisions regarding her health and how she chooses to disclose her HIV status, the social worker fosters a safe environment for the client to explore her feelings and concerns. While it's important to educate the client about the implications of non-disclosure, including the risks to her partners, it is also crucial to empower her to take charge of her situation. Encouraging open communication about health is essential, but imposing actions such as contacting her partners directly may breach confidentiality and undermine the client's autonomy. Referral to public health services could be helpful, but might not align with immediate supportive intervention focused on the client’s self-determination and privacy. Ultimately, prioritizing the ethical principles of confidentiality and client empowerment is vital in this context.