Individual Practice SWES Practice Test

When an elderly client continues to call a social worker with inconsequential questions after an initial visit, what should the worker do?

1. Ignore the calls until the next scheduled visit

2. Schedule a check-in call at a later date

3. Ask if the client would like to meet sooner

4. Reassure the client that they will be contacted later

The correct answer is: Ask if the client would like to meet sooner

When an elderly client persists in calling the social worker with inconsequential questions after an initial visit, it indicates a need for support or reassurance. Option three, asking if the client would like to meet sooner, is the most appropriate response in this situation. This approach demonstrates attentiveness to the client's emotional and social needs. It acknowledges that the client may be feeling insecure or anxious, leading them to seek additional guidance or contact. By offering to meet sooner, the social worker provides a clear and direct avenue for addressing the client's concerns, thus alleviating any feelings of anxiety the client may have. The social worker's response not only aims to understand the underlying reasons for the client's repeated calls but also builds rapport and trust, which is essential in social work practice. This response ensures that the client feels heard and valued, reinforcing the relationship between the client and the social worker.