Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

What is the initial step a case manager should take when a client expresses guilt about placing her husband in a nursing home?

1. Dismiss her feelings as unreasonable under the circumstances.

2. Help the client see that guilt is very unhealthy.

3. Accept and understand the client's guilt, allowing her to ventilate.

4. Help the client see what he or she has done.

The correct answer is: Accept and understand the client's guilt, allowing her to ventilate.

When a client expresses guilt about placing her husband in a nursing home, the initial step a case manager should take is to accept and understand the client's feelings, allowing her to ventilate. This approach is crucial because it creates a supportive environment where the client feels heard and validated in her emotions. Guilt is a common and natural response in these situations, often stemming from societal pressures and personal beliefs about caregiving and responsibility. By providing a safe space for the client to express her feelings without judgment, the case manager fosters trust and facilitates further exploration of these emotions, which is essential for emotional healing and decision-making. Additionally, acknowledging the client's guilt can help her process these feelings more constructively, leading to a clearer understanding of her situation and the decisions she has made. It is important to recognize that dismissing or minimizing her feelings would not be helpful and could potentially exacerbate feelings of isolation or shame. This supportive approach sets a foundation for discussing the practical aspects of care and the well-being of both the client and her husband in a nursing home setting.