California Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) Law and Ethics exam

What should a social worker do when a client asks to read their file?

1. Immediately provide access to all records

2. Explain they have a legal right but require a procedure

3. Allow access without any conditions

4. Recommend discussing the content before showing the file

The correct answer is: Explain they have a legal right but require a procedure

When a client requests to read their file, the appropriate action for a social worker is to explain that the client has a legal right to access their records but that there are specific procedures involved in that process. This response ensures that the social worker respects the client's rights while also adhering to legal and ethical standards that govern client confidentiality and the handling of sensitive information. Providing access to records implies that there are no controls or protocols to follow, which could compromise privacy and confidentiality agreements. Simply allowing access without conditions can overlook potential issues, such as sensitive content that the client may not be ready to handle on their own. Recommending a discussion before accessing the file could be beneficial, but it may not align with the client's immediate request to see their records. Thus, clarifying the legal right to access while outlining necessary procedures strikes the right balance between empowering the client and maintaining professional protocols.