This question-specific review guide is tied to the answer reasoning for a PracticeTestVault item. Use it after you answer the question so the review stays focused on what the prompt actually tested.
What this question is testing
Objective: Confidentiality
Prompt focus: A clinical social worker in California receives a subpoena for a client's treatment records. Before releasing the records, the social worker should generally do which of the following first?
Why the correct answer works
Assert the psychotherapist patient privilege and seek the client's authorization or guidance from the court
The social worker should assert the psychotherapist patient privilege and obtain the client's authorization or court direction before releasing records.
Why the tempting wrong answer fails
Disclosing records verbally to avoid documentation does not protect privilege and is improper.
Plain-language takeaway
A subpoena is not automatic authorization to release privileged records. The psychotherapist patient privilege belongs to the client, and the clinician should claim the privilege on the client's behalf unless the client authorizes release or a court orders it.
Simple analogy
Think of confidentiality like following a short checklist: identify the clue, confirm the rule, and then make the move that fits this exact scenario.
How to review it before a retake
- Underline the command word and name what the question is asking before rereading the choices.
- Compare the correct answer against the closest distractor and write the exact detail that separates them.
- Retest this objective with a fresh question without looking at the rationale first.