Professional Standards and Ethics Flashcards

Which statement about I&R record retention and security is most consistent with professional standards?

Answer: Inquirer records should be stored securely with access limited to authorized staff

Standards require safeguarding inquirer data through secure storage and limited access.

A funder requests a list of callers' names who asked about substance use treatment. The I&R agency should:

Answer: Provide only aggregated, de-identified data

Reporting to funders uses aggregate, non-identifying data to protect inquirer confidentiality.

Which best describes the purpose of follow-up in I&R practice?

Answer: To determine whether needs were met and to identify service gaps or barriers

Follow-up checks outcomes for vulnerable inquirers and reveals gaps that inform community planning.

A specialist feels overwhelmed after several crisis calls. Professional standards most support:

Answer: Using agency supports such as debriefing and self-care to prevent burnout

Self-care and supervision help maintain service quality and staff well-being without breaching confidentiality.

An inquirer is clearly eligible for a program but the provider has wrongly denied them. The most appropriate I&R action is:

Answer: With consent, advocate with the provider or connect the inquirer to an advocacy resource

Advocacy, with the inquirer's consent, helps overcome barriers to services they are entitled to.

Which behavior best reflects a professional, nonjudgmental attitude during an I&R contact?

Answer: Using neutral language and focusing on the inquirer's stated needs

Neutral, needs-focused communication respects dignity and avoids bias.

Why do I&R standards emphasize that specialists should not provide services beyond their training, such as legal or medical advice?

Answer: To protect inquirers from harm and refer them to qualified professionals

Specialists stay within their competence and refer specialized questions to qualified providers.