LMSW Practice Test

What should a worker do upon receiving a letter from a hospital patient requesting a transfer to a previous treatment facility?

1. Arrange for a transfer, as per her written request

2. Contact the social worker in the city hospital and ask him or her to see the patient

3. Ignore the letter, since the patient is in treatment

4. Notify the patient that this is not the worker's function

The correct answer is: Arrange for a transfer, as per her written request

When a worker receives a letter from a hospital patient requesting a transfer to a previous treatment facility, the appropriate action is to arrange for the transfer based on the patient’s written request. This acknowledges the patient's autonomy and right to participate in their own care decisions. It is essential to respect the patient’s wishes, as they are actively engaged in their treatment process and have the right to seek environments that they believe will be more beneficial for their recovery. Facilitating the request also involves the worker assessing whether the transfer aligns with the patient’s clinical needs. This may include checking with both the current hospital and the previous facility to ensure an appropriate match in treatment and services. While there may be factors that could complicate the transfer, taking the patient's request seriously and initiating the process demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care. The other responses do not prioritize the patient’s request in the same manner. For instance, contacting another social worker may serve as assistance, but it could delay the process and does not directly address the patient's expressed desire. Ignoring the letter disregards the patient’s autonomy and can undermine their trust in the treatment process. Notifying the patient that handling transfer requests is not the worker's function dismisses their needs and can leave them feeling unsupported in their