Final answer:
The social worker should explore with the client the reasons for not wanting her daughter to visit, providing a supportive environment to understand her feelings and concerns. This approach allows for an informed assessment of the situation, respecting the client's autonomy and potentially identifying issues like elder abuse.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evaluating the Next Step for a Social Worker
When faced with a situation where a client expresses distress at the prospect of a visitor, such as a family member, the social worker should explore with the client why they do not want the individual to come in. In the provided scenario, it is most professional and therapeutic to address the client's immediate emotional state and understand their concerns. This approach respects the client's autonomy and provides an opportunity for the social worker to gather more information to determine the appropriate course of action, which could be anything from ensuring the client's emotional comfort to assessing for potential signs of elder abuse.
Jumping to conclusions without firsthand information, such as making a report to Adult Protective Services or demanding that the daughter leave, could potentially escalate the situation or infringe upon the client's rights. It is essential for the social worker to exercise empathy and use their professional judgment to navigate the situation carefully, considering the complexities of interpersonal relationships within families and the sensitivity needed when dealing with potentially vulnerable populations.