Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

If a client with schizophrenia begins to hallucinate, what action should the social worker primarily take?

1. Encourage the client to confront their hallucinations

2. Provide ego support and refer to a psychiatrist

3. Resume previous treatment methods

4. Suggest a group therapy session

The correct answer is: Provide ego support and refer to a psychiatrist

In situations where a client with schizophrenia starts to experience hallucinations, providing ego support and facilitating a referral to a psychiatrist is a crucial action for the social worker. This approach acknowledges the client's experience while ensuring they receive appropriate medical care, which may involve medication adjustments or additional therapies. Ego support helps to stabilize the client’s mood and provides reassurance that their feelings are understood and valid. This supportive interaction can help mitigate feelings of isolation or distress that often accompany hallucinations. Additionally, referring the client to a psychiatrist is essential because hallucinations can indicate a worsening of their condition that may require pharmacological intervention—something outside the scope of practice for a social worker. Other options, while they might seem beneficial in some contexts, may not be the most effective immediate actions. Encouraging the client to confront their hallucinations could lead to increased anxiety or confusion if they are not ready or able to do so. Resuming previous treatment methods might not be suitable if current symptoms are emergent and indicative of a need for a revised approach. Suggesting a group therapy session may not provide the immediate support needed in the moment of hallucination and might overwhelm the client instead. Thus, prioritizing the referral to a psychiatrist along with providing support creates a more comprehensive and immediate plan