MSW MSW Master of Social Work Professional Values and Ethics Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

A social worker discovers that a colleague is practicing while impaired due to substance use. According to the NASW Code of Ethics, what is the social worker's primary obligation?

Accepted Answer

Report the concern through appropriate channels to protect clients

Answer

The NASW Code of Ethics requires social workers to take action when a colleague's impairment interferes with practice effectiveness, primarily to protect clients from harm.

Question 2

Which ethical principle is demonstrated when a social worker helps a client understand all available treatment options and supports the client's right to choose?

Accepted Answer

Self-determination

Answer

Self-determination is the ethical principle that recognizes clients' rights to make their own decisions and choices about their care and treatment.

Question 3

A social worker in private practice receives a subpoena for a client's records. What should the social worker do first?

Accepted Answer

Consult with an attorney and notify the client before releasing any information

Answer

Social workers should consult legal counsel and inform the client before responding to a subpoena, as a subpoena alone does not override confidentiality obligations without a court order.

Question 4

In which situation would a social worker be ethically justified in breaching client confidentiality without the client's consent?

Accepted Answer

When the client reveals plans to seriously harm an identifiable third party

Answer

The duty to warn or protect applies when a client poses a serious, imminent threat to an identifiable third party, which is a recognized exception to confidentiality.

Question 5

A social worker feels a strong personal attraction to a current client. What is the most ethical course of action?

Accepted Answer

Seek consultation or supervision and consider transferring the client

Answer

The NASW Code of Ethics prohibits dual relationships that could exploit clients, and seeking supervision while considering a referral protects the client's well-being.

MSW - Master of Social Work Practice Test

MSW - Master of Social Work Practice Test

MSW MSW Master of Social Work Professional Values and Ethics Questions and Answers 2