Law and Ethics Practice Exam

If a client feels overwhelmed caring for an elderly parent, what should the therapist do next?

1. Refer client to a psychiatrist for medication evaluation.

2. File an elder abuse report.

3. Determine who is caring for her mother when the client is gone all day.

4. Refer client to respite care services.

The correct answer is: Determine who is caring for her mother when the client is gone all day.

The most appropriate course of action in this scenario is to assess who is providing care for the client's mother while the client is unavailable. This line of inquiry is crucial because it directly addresses the client's feelings of being overwhelmed. By understanding the current caregiving situation, the therapist can identify any gaps in support or potential risks related to the care being provided. Exploring the specifics of the caregiving arrangement may reveal whether the elderly parent is receiving adequate care, whether the client has sufficient support, or if there are any concerns about the quality or safety of care. This understanding sets the foundation for more tailored interventions or referrals that may be necessary to alleviate the client's burden and ensure the well-being of the elderly parent. Other options might not directly address the immediate concerns of the client. For instance, referring the client to respite care services could be part of a later plan, but it’s essential first to understand the caregiving context before making such a referral. Similarly, filing an elder abuse report is a significant step that would require evidence of neglect or abuse, which hasn’t been established in this situation. Referring the client for a medication evaluation may not be warranted unless there's a clear indication of mental health issues that require medication management. Thus, determining the current caregiving