See example S.O.A.P Note and Submit a S.O.A.P note using on the following case scenario responding to the 4 questions at the end of the scenario:
The Mendez Family
This Mendez family consists of a mother, 20-year old Maria; father, 22-year old
Leonardo; baby girls, 2-month old Teresa and 15-month old, Juanita; and a boy, 3-year old Pablo.
Maria Mendez has remained at home since the birth of Teresa. She was overweight prior to the baby’s birth, and has gained more weight. She was diagnosed with diabetes during her last pregnancy, which has also continued after birth. She is supposed to check her sugar count regularly, but says she does not have money for the necessary supplies, so she does not do so. Her doctor spoke about the need for insulin, but that also has not been followed up. Maria says she is not eligible for Medicaid although the children are. She watches television most of the day and is frequently tired. The children are present with her, but pretty much left to fend for themselves. Teresa stays in her crib most of the day. She is quiet and doesn’t move much, except when her sister and brother play with her, and then she smiles and coos happily. 15-month old Juanita runs around the house and pulls clothing out of drawers or plays in the sink in the bathroom. She speaks words that are not understandable. 3-year old Pablo has severely limited speech and appears to have trouble walking and keeping his balance. He spends most of his time watching TV with his mother. The mother feeds the older children toast and cereal. Out of concern, Maria’s parents who live several miles away, bring cooked food when they can. They work very long hours and cannot come by very often.
There are 5 cats and 2 dogs in the home. Dishes and old food are scattered about the kitchen. The home is rental property. The roof, which leaks when it rains, needs to be repaired. The family uses space heaters when it is cold because the central heating system is currently not working. There is no air conditioning in the home. The living room has some exposed wires that were not covered after some repairs were done 6 months ago. The children frequently have colds and ear infections.
The children’s father works all the time at a local poultry processing plant. He stays away from home because he doesn’t know how to respond to his living situation and is reluctant to ask for help. His wife has not always behaved in this way. His parents live out of the country and he sends part of his paycheck to them. He simply cannot stay at home.
Answer the following questions:
1. You have read fie referral about the Mendez family. What might be your thoughts and reactions as you are driving to make your first home visit?
2.What are some strengths of this family?
3.What are some of the needs or issues of this family?
4.You have made your list of strengths and needs. As the social worker for this family, what do you think should be done first with this family and why?
(Answer questions within the S.O.A.P note)
