If a social worker suspects a client poses a danger to themselves or others, what should they do?

A social worker who suspects that a client poses a danger to themselves or others must prioritize the safety and well-being of the client and those around them. Conducting a risk assessment is a critical step in evaluating the severity and immediacy of the potential danger. This involves understanding the client's mental state, reviewing any history of harmful behavior, and exploring specific factors that may increase the risk of harm.

By taking necessary actions after the assessment, the social worker can implement appropriate interventions, which may include creating a safety plan, mobilizing support systems, or, if necessary, initiating involuntary hospitalization if the client poses an imminent risk of harm. This proactive approach aligns with ethical responsibilities to protect clients and uphold community safety.

In this context, ignoring the concerns or waiting for explicit intent from the client would be inadequate, as immediate action may be required to prevent potential harm. Discussions with the client's family could be beneficial, but they are not the primary initial step in handling such a critical situation. Referring the client to another professional might not provide the immediate response necessary to ensure safety, which places the emphasis on the social worker to address the risk adequately.