BCG Professional Ethics & Standards 2

Question 1

A gerontological social worker discovers that an elderly client with mild cognitive impairment has been making large financial gifts to a new acquaintance. What is the MOST appropriate initial action?

Accepted Answer

Conduct a capacity assessment and consult with the interdisciplinary team

Answer

A capacity assessment establishes whether the client can make informed financial decisions before any reporting or intervention is initiated.

Question 2

Which ethical principle is MOST directly violated when a gerontological professional shares a client's diagnosis with the client's employer without consent?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Sharing protected health information without consent is a direct breach of confidentiality, a cornerstone ethical and legal obligation.

Question 3

An older adult refuses a recommended medication change despite clear evidence it would improve her condition. The care team disagrees with her choice. Under the ethical principle of autonomy, what should occur?

Accepted Answer

Respect her decision after confirming she has decision-making capacity

Answer

A competent adult's informed refusal of treatment must be respected, even when clinicians disagree with the choice.

Question 4

In gerontological practice, 'ageism' as an ethical concern MOST directly refers to:

Accepted Answer

Stereotyping, prejudice, or discrimination based on a person's age

Answer

Ageism encompasses negative stereotypes, attitudes, and discriminatory behaviors directed at individuals because of their age.

Question 5

A BCG-certified professional observes a colleague engaging in unethical conduct with an older client. What is the MOST appropriate step according to professional standards?

Accepted Answer

Confront the colleague privately and, if unresolved, report to the appropriate professional body

Answer

Professional codes of ethics require practitioners to address colleague misconduct first directly, then through formal reporting channels if needed.

(BCG) Board Certification in Gerontology Practice Test

(BCG) Board Certification in Gerontology Practice Test

BCG Professional Ethics & Standards 2