The outcome of risk assessment often informs which action?

• A. Change the client’s diagnosis
• B. Rule out confidentiality
• C. Appropriate interventions and referrals
• D. Eliminate safety planning

Answer: (C)

Assessing risk centers on determining how urgent safety concerns are and what steps will most effectively address them. The outcome of that assessment guides what to do next in a way that directly supports safety and treatment, so choosing appropriate interventions and referrals is the action that flows from the risk assessment. This step ensures the client gets the right level of care and support, whether that means crisis intervention, medical evaluation, or referrals to higher levels of care or community resources.

Why the other options don’t fit as the primary outcome: changing a diagnosis isn’t driven by risk level; risk assessment focuses on safety and care needs rather than reclassifying diagnoses. Confidentiality isn’t ruled out by risk assessment; confidentiality remains in place with appropriate exceptions (like mandated reporting or imminent danger), not eliminated. And safety planning isn’t something to be eliminated; it’s a common and essential part of responding to identified risk, often implemented alongside or as part of the chosen interventions and referrals.