Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

What is an appropriate initial reaction from a social worker when engaging a delusional and disorganized homeless woman?

1. Insist she must go to a hospital immediately

2. Offer her a place to stay for the night

3. Encourage her to visit a walk-in emergency room

4. Call the police for assistance

The correct answer is: Encourage her to visit a walk-in emergency room

Encouraging the delusional and disorganized woman to visit a walk-in emergency room represents an appropriate initial reaction for several reasons. First, this approach prioritizes her safety and well-being while also addressing her current mental health needs in a compassionate and non-threatening manner. A walk-in emergency room is equipped to evaluate her mental health status comprehensively and can provide immediate psychiatric care, which may be necessary given her condition. This option avoids the potential escalation that could arise from more forceful measures, such as insisting she must go to a hospital immediately, which could lead to resistance and further disorganization. Offering her a place to stay for the night might not be effective without first assessing her mental state and ensuring a safe environment, as it does not directly address her immediate psychological needs. Calling the police could evoke feelings of fear or mistrust, potentially exacerbating her disorganized state and leading to negative outcomes. By suggesting a visit to a walk-in emergency room, the social worker maintains a focus on supportive engagement while facilitating access to professional help for her delusions and disorganization. This approach exemplifies the core values of social work, including respect for the dignity and worth of the individual, and emphasizes the importance of connecting clients with appropriate resources.