Question

David has an overnight pass, and he plans to spend this time with his sister and her family. As you meet with the patient and his sister just prior to the pass, the sister mentions that she has missed her brother and needs him to babysit. You notice that the patient becomes visibly agitated when she says this. How do you balance safety and the patient's right to confidentiality?

Answer 1

When balancing safety and a patient's right to confidentiality, it is important to prioritize the patient's well-being. Open communication and involving the patient in decision-making can help find a balance. Respecting the patient's right to confidentiality while addressing safety concerns is crucial.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the given scenario, the issue at hand is balancing the safety of the patient with their right to confidentiality. As a health professional, it is important to prioritize the well-being and safety of the patient. In this situation, if the patient becomes visibly agitated when the sister mentions needing him to babysit, it may indicate a potential risk or trigger for the patient. Therefore, it is essential to address the patient's concerns and assess the situation to ensure their safety.

The patient's right to confidentiality should also be respected, as it is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare. However, exceptions may need to be considered if there is a potential risk to the patient or others. In this case, it would be appropriate to have a conversation with the patient and explain the concerns regarding their ability to babysit safely, without disclosing any private information.

It is crucial to maintain open communication with the patient and involve them in decision-making whenever possible. By discussing the safety concerns and exploring alternative solutions together, a balance can be achieved between ensuring the patient's safety and respecting their right to confidentiality.