Navigating Community and Social Support Networks

1. A 32-year-old man with schizophrenia has stable medication management but recently lost his room in a shared apartment due to non-payment. He visits the clinic reporting increased stress and “nowhere to go tonight.” He declines hospitalization and says he just needs a safe place until he adjusts his budget next month. Which resource is the most appropriate first-line referral? *
2. Mrs. Ouellet, 81, lives alone and has early dementia. Her daughter lives out of province and visits twice a year. The LPN notices unpaid bills piling up and expired food in her fridge. She refuses “moving to any facility.” Which referral best supports her independence while addressing safety risks? *
3. A refugee father brings his 8-year-old to the clinic for poorly controlled asthma. He speaks minimal English and cannot read in his own language. He nods “yes” to every instruction but appears unsure when asked to demonstrate inhaler use. Which strategy bridges both cultural and literacy barriers most effectively? *
4. A woman presents with vague chronic pain, appears anxious, and avoids eye contact. She mentions she is “not allowed to use the car” and “doesn’t have friends here.” Her partner insists on joining every appointment. Which community resource is the safest and most appropriate to connect her with first? *
5. An Indigenous man with diabetes frequently misses follow-ups because the clinic feels “cold” and “not for us.” He expresses distrust based on past experiences with healthcare systems. Which action demonstrates culturally safe navigation of community supports? *
6. A 55-year-old immigrant woman is caring full-time for her husband post-stroke. She has no local family, limited English, and is overwhelmed. She declines home-care services because she “doesn’t want strangers in the house.” Which referral respects cultural beliefs while supporting caregiver strain? *
7. A 17-year-old with cannabis and alcohol misuse says he wants help but “can’t tell my parents—they’ll kick me out.” He still lives at home and is finishing high school. What is the most appropriate initial community referral? *
8. An elderly couple on a fixed income subtly mentions “sometimes supper is just toast and tea.” They appear embarrassed and say they "don’t want charity." Which support respects dignity and reduces stigma? *
9. A 40-year-old patient with generalized anxiety refuses in-person visits due to panic attacks when leaving home. They are medically stable but need ongoing monitoring. Which community service best supports continued engagement? *
10. A 59-year-old man with COPD, diabetes, and hypertension is chronically homeless. He frequently uses the ER for medication refills and has no phone, address, or family. He agrees to “get help if someone can guide me.” Which referral is most comprehensive for his needs? *