Melissa is a social worker making a routine home visit with one of her clients. During the session, she finds out the family received a letter from an ex-husband in jail. He is set to get out of prison in two days and has threatened to kill the ex-wife. Since confidentiality cannot be shared due to the client not consenting, Melissa contacts her administrator. What recommendation will she most likely receive?
A)This is a conflict of interest and privacy should not be disclosed
B)Disclosing information is necessary to prevent serious harm
C)Payment for services should be obtained before the ex-husband gets out of jail
D)All services should be terminated immediately

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Social workers may disclose confidential information only by consent of the client when appropriate. The administrator needs to stress the ethical code stating this does not apply when disclosure is necessary to prevent foreseeable, serious, and imminent danger to the client or other identified individuals. The supervisee should be instructed to only share the relevant information required to achieve the desired purpose.

Melissa Is a Social Worker Making a Routine Home Visit