A client is reporting feeling very tired and having trouble getting out of bed. He has recently experienced a lot of stress at work. In order to best serve the client, a social worker should FIRST:

A client is reporting feeling very tired and having trouble getting out of bed. He has recently experienced a lot of stress at work. In order to best serve the client, a social worker should FIRST:

• A. Refer the client to a health care professional to rule out any medical causes for lethargy
• B. Determine if the source of the stress could be coming from other changes in the client's life
• C. Begin teaching him techniques to deal with stress
• D. Explore with the client what issues at work may be causing the stress

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that physical health should be evaluated before psychosocial interventions when a client presents with symptoms that could have a medical basis. Fatigue and trouble getting out of bed can signal medical conditions such as sleep disorders, anemia, thyroid problems, infections, or even medication effects, not just stress. A social worker’s first step is to refer the client for medical evaluation to rule out or treat any underlying medical causes. This ensures that any treatment or counseling for stress or work-related issues is appropriate and safe given the client’s health status. Once a medical evaluation has clarified there are no treatable medical issues, you can proceed with exploring work stress, life changes, and teaching coping strategies.

The main idea being tested is that physical health should be evaluated before psychosocial interventions when a client presents with symptoms that could have a medical basis. Fatigue and trouble getting out of bed can signal medical conditions such as sleep disorders, anemia, thyroid problems, infections, or even medication effects, not just stress. A social worker’s first step is to refer the client for medical evaluation to rule out or treat any underlying medical causes. This ensures that any treatment or counseling for stress or work-related issues is appropriate and safe given the client’s health status. Once a medical evaluation has clarified there are no treatable medical issues, you can proceed with exploring work stress, life changes, and teaching coping strategies.