LMSW Practice Test

A woman is referred to a community mental health agency by the local hospital. She was tested twice for AIDS. Though the test results were negative, she requested additional tests and continues to ask for more AIDS tests. She asks the social worker to intervene with the hospital on her behalf. The social worker should assess

1. her AIDS risk behavior

2. her current mental health diagnosis

3. how to advocate on her behalf with the hospital

4. the reasons for her concern

The correct answer is: her AIDS risk behavior

The correct approach in this scenario is to assess the reasons for her concern about her AIDS test results. While evaluating her AIDS risk behavior is important to understand her background and any specific risk factors she may have, determining the underlying reasons for her persistent anxiety about testing is crucial. This assessment could reveal psychological factors, such as anxiety or health-related fears, that may be influencing her ongoing requests for testing. By understanding her concerns more deeply, the social worker can better address her emotional state and provide appropriate support, possibly including counseling or referrals to mental health resources, which may aid in alleviating her anxiety about the situation. This understanding can also inform how to advocate effectively with the hospital if necessary.