Final answer:
Option b is correct; nurses should build a rapport with the adolescent before obtaining their sexual health history. This maintains confidentiality and trust, fostering an environment where the adolescent feels safe to discuss sensitive topics. The approach to parental involvement and confidentiality must be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing an adolescent's sexual health history, option b is correct. The nurse should build a rapport with the adolescent before obtaining an adolescent's sexual health history. It is essential to create a trusting and comfortable environment so the adolescent feels safe to disclose sensitive information. This approach respects the adolescent's privacy and confidentiality, which is crucial in sexual health matters.
Discussing sexual health can be difficult for teenagers, especially if they fear that their information will be shared with their parents. It's important that healthcare providers balance the need for parental involvement with the adolescents' right to confidentiality. Each situation may require a different approach, and sometimes, it may not be appropriate to inform parents, especially if it could endanger the adolescent or violate their privacy rights. Open and clear communication regarding what information can be kept confidential should be established with the adolescent.
Physicians and nurses must navigate these scenarios carefully, adhering to laws and policies that govern patient confidentiality and considering the welfare and rights of the adolescent patient.