Certified Case Manager Practice Test

What is the best indicator that a case involving a substance-using parent is ready for closure?

1. Progress in parental employment

2. Assessment of indicators of harm

3. Improvement in the parent-child relationship

4. Completion of a rehabilitation program

The correct answer is: Assessment of indicators of harm

The best indicator that a case involving a substance-using parent is ready for closure is an assessment of indicators of harm. This is crucial because the primary concern in cases involving substance use is the safety and well-being of the child. Evaluating indicators of harm allows for a thorough understanding of whether the child is still at risk or if the parent’s substance use has been effectively managed to a point where the child can remain in or return to the parent's care safely. While factors such as parental employment, improvement in the parent-child relationship, and completion of a rehabilitation program are certainly positive signs of progress, they may not fully address the core concern of child safety. For instance, a parent might maintain employment and have a better relationship with their child, but if they haven’t shown a sustainable pattern of sobriety or if the risk to the child remains, the case may not yet be ready for closure. Thus, the assessment of harm directly ties to the fundamental purpose of case management: ensuring the safety and well-being of the child before concluding the involvement.