Which of the following indicates a client may require a higher level of care or referral?

Which of the following indicates a client may require a higher level of care or referral?

• A. Worsening symptoms
• B. Improved mood
• C. Stable housing
• D. Regular attendance

Answer: (A)

When deciding on the level of care or a referral, look for signs that the client is no longer able to be safely and effectively managed at the current level. Worsening symptoms signal increasing risk or impairment, suggesting the need for a higher level of care, such as more intensive therapy, crisis services, medical/psychiatric evaluation, or residential treatment. This is especially true if deterioration includes heightened cravings, withdrawal difficulties, mood instability, self-harm or suicidality, risk of overdose, or declining functioning at work or in relationships. In contrast, improved mood, stable housing, and regular attendance reflect stabilization and engagement, indicating the current plan is still appropriate and might even allow for maintaining or gradually stepping down care.

When deciding on the level of care or a referral, look for signs that the client is no longer able to be safely and effectively managed at the current level. Worsening symptoms signal increasing risk or impairment, suggesting the need for a higher level of care, such as more intensive therapy, crisis services, medical/psychiatric evaluation, or residential treatment. This is especially true if deterioration includes heightened cravings, withdrawal difficulties, mood instability, self-harm or suicidality, risk of overdose, or declining functioning at work or in relationships.

In contrast, improved mood, stable housing, and regular attendance reflect stabilization and engagement, indicating the current plan is still appropriate and might even allow for maintaining or gradually stepping down care.