Question

The patient is concerned about confidentiality and asks the nurse not to tell anyone what is said. What is the best response by the nurse?

a. I am required to report any intent to hurt yourself or others.
b. Conversations between patient and nurse are confidential.
c. What we say can be secret. What I write in the chart is available to the health team.
d. I can't help you unless you trust me.

Answer 1

The best response by the nurse to the patient's confidentiality concern is that conversations between patient and nurse are confidential, with exceptions for cases involving harm to self or others.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best response by the nurse to the patient's concern about confidentiality would be b. Conversations between patient and nurse are confidential.

The nurse should assure the patient that their conversations will remain confidential, as it is an essential aspect of establishing trust and maintaining the patient's privacy rights. However, it is important to note that there are exceptions to confidentiality, such as when a patient expresses intent to harm themselves or others. In such cases, the nurse is required to report the information to ensure the safety of the patient and others involved.

It is worth mentioning to the patient that while conversations are confidential, the information documented in the patient's medical record may be accessible to the healthcare team involved in their care. This is necessary to ensure effective communication and coordination of treatment.