Certified Case Manager Practice Test

At what point does the family assessment and case planning process initiate?

1. Upon the first meeting with the family

2. Once a case worker is assigned

3. At initial contact made by the CPI

4. After the child is placed in foster care

The correct answer is: At initial contact made by the CPI

The family assessment and case planning process initiates at the point of initial contact made by the Child Protective Investigator (CPI). This is critical because the CPI plays a key role in assessing the immediate safety and welfare of the child, as well as gathering initial information about the family dynamics and any potential risk factors. Starting the assessment during this initial contact allows for timely interventions and the development of a plan that addresses the family’s needs and circumstances right from the beginning. This proactive approach ensures that all relevant information is collected early in the process, enabling the case manager and other practitioners to make informed decisions and provide appropriate services to the family as the situation develops. In contrast, other options suggest a later point in the process, either after a case worker is assigned or after the child is already placed in foster care, both of which would miss the opportunity for early assessment and planning that can significantly influence outcomes for the child and family.