Here's a series of articles via the NASW, each
tackling another ethics issue (in eight bullet points):
Ethics 8. Read through and imagine that you're an exam question
writer on the hunt for a new question subject. Each one of these
articles suggests multiple questions.
Take the timely
Coronavirus: Eight Ethical Considerations, which includes this
exam-question fodder:
Ensure Privacy for All Electronic Communications and
Records
Social workers who elect to communicate electronically with
clients should adhere to ethical responsibilities related to
Standard 1.07, Privacy and Confidentiality.
The NASW Code of Ethics, Standard 1.07(m), states that
"social workers should take reasonable steps to protect the
confidentiality of electronic communications, including information
provided to clients or third parties.
Furthermore, "Social workers should use applicable safeguards
(such as encryption, firewalls, and passwords) when using
electronic communications such as e-mail, online posts online chat
sessions, mobile communication, and text messages."
The ethical and other professional standards that apply to
in-person communication and documentation also apply when
communicating electronically. In addition, it is not uncommon for
communications in the form of e-mail and other electronic means to
be included in legal and professional review matters.
How would you shape an exam question around this
material or using Code of Ethics 1.07?
Maybe something about "reasonable steps." Maybe something about
"applicable safeguards." Maybe something more specific. "A social
worker is moving to telehealth sessions temporarily. Before using
FaceTime for sessions, the social worker should." Fill in the A, B,
C, D. The one that says, "Ensure HIPAA compliance of any platform
being utilized…" is the correct answer.
Enjoy the site. If you come up with any good practice questions,
send them in. Maybe we'll share them here.
