Which statement about social workers in nursing facilities is true?

The statement regarding consultation being utilized in lieu of full-time social workers in smaller facilities is accurate because it reflects established regulatory guidelines for nursing homes in certain contexts. Smaller facilities often have less resident volume and may not require a full-time social worker on staff. As a result, regulatory bodies allow for social work consultations to fulfill the needs of residents and ensure that social services are available without the necessity for a full-time professional. This approach allows facilities to maintain compliance with regulations while adapting to the specific demands of their environment and the size of their resident population.

In contrast, the requirement for all facilities to have full-time social workers does not consider varying sizes and needs among different nursing homes. While social services are integral to resident care, the option for part-time or consultative support provides flexibility. Similarly, the imposition of mandatory weekly social services meetings is not a blanket requirement across all facilities, as the need for such meetings can vary based on the facility's circumstances. Lastly, stating that social workers are optional in all nursing facilities overlooks the importance of these professionals in delivering comprehensive care and support to residents, which is typically mandated by regulatory standards.