Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What is an appropriate action for a social worker when addressing a client displaying suicidal ideation?

1. Suggesting they engage in distracting activities

2. Asking about their safety plan

3. Encouraging them to talk things through

4. Advising a break until they feel better

The correct answer is: Asking about their safety plan

When a client is displaying suicidal ideation, one of the most critical actions a social worker can take is to ask about their safety plan. This action is essential because it directly addresses the client's immediate risk and ensures their safety. A safety plan typically includes identifying warning signs, coping strategies, support resources, and emergency contacts, which are vital components in crisis management. Inquiring about a client's safety plan allows the social worker to understand the client's current state more clearly and to gauge their level of safety. It opens up a dialogue that helps the client articulate their feelings and the steps they have in place to protect themselves, reinforcing their agency and involvement in managing their own safety. While suggesting distracting activities or encouraging the client to talk things through can be valuable approaches in different contexts, they may not adequately address the seriousness of suicidal ideation, especially if the client is in immediate distress. Advising a break until they feel better could also insufficiently respond to the urgency of the situation, as it may not provide the necessary structure or guidance needed during a crisis. Therefore, discussing and assessing a safety plan is the most appropriate and necessary action in this scenario.