Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 77%
Simulated
A client asks the nurse to promise to keep confidential a plan they have to kill their father. Which of the following statements would be the best response for the nurse to make?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct response is D: "I cannot promise that. Confidentiality does not include plans to hurt others." This is the best response because it upholds the ethical duty to protect the potential victim (the father) from harm. Confidentiality does not extend to situations where harm to others is involved, and the nurse has a duty to report such plans to ensure safety.
Explanation of other options:
A: "You should share this thought with your psychiatrist." - While encouraging seeking help is important, this response does not address the immediate safety concern of the potential victim.
B: "I can make that promise to you based on nurse-client privilege." - Incorrect, as confidentiality does not apply to plans of harm.
C: "Those kinds of thoughts will make your hospitalization longer." - Inappropriate response that does not address the safety concern and may discourage honest communication.
Explanation of other options:
A: "You should share this thought with your psychiatrist." - While encouraging seeking help is important, this response does not address the immediate safety concern of the potential victim.
B: "I can make that promise to you based on nurse-client privilege." - Incorrect, as confidentiality does not apply to plans of harm.
C: "Those kinds of thoughts will make your hospitalization longer." - Inappropriate response that does not address the safety concern and may discourage honest communication.