What is an appropriate response by a nurse when a client's daughter inquires about her mother's condition, but the chart does not allow information to be shared?

What is an appropriate response by a nurse when a client's daughter inquires about her mother's condition, but the chart does not allow information to be shared?

• A. "Contact the doctor for permission."
• B. "You will need to contact your mother directly about her condition."
• C. "I can give you basic information only."
• D. "You may visit her to check her status."

Answer: (B)

The response suggesting that the daughter contact her mother directly about her condition is appropriate as it respects patient confidentiality and privacy laws, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Healthcare professionals must maintain the confidentiality of patient information unless explicit consent is given for sharing such details. Encouraging the daughter to communicate directly with her mother empowers the client and ensures that any information shared is controlled by the patient, fostering trust and respect for their autonomy. This approach also reinforces the need for consent in healthcare communication and emphasizes the importance of the client’s rights in healthcare settings. This response aligns with ethical practices in nursing by not disclosing any information without proper authorization and encouraging open communication among family members while ensuring the patient is still in control of their own health information.

The response suggesting that the daughter contact her mother directly about her condition is appropriate as it respects patient confidentiality and privacy laws, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Healthcare professionals must maintain the confidentiality of patient information unless explicit consent is given for sharing such details.

Encouraging the daughter to communicate directly with her mother empowers the client and ensures that any information shared is controlled by the patient, fostering trust and respect for their autonomy. This approach also reinforces the need for consent in healthcare communication and emphasizes the importance of the client’s rights in healthcare settings.

This response aligns with ethical practices in nursing by not disclosing any information without proper authorization and encouraging open communication among family members while ensuring the patient is still in control of their own health information.