The school nurse tells adolescents in the clinic that confidentiality and privacy will be maintained unless a life-threatening situation arises. How should this practice be interpreted?

A) Not appropriate in a school setting
B) Never appropriate because adolescents are minors
C) Important in establishing trusting relationships
D) Suggestive that the nurse is meeting his or her own needs

Health professionals who work with adolescents should consider adolescents' increasing independence and responsibility while maintaining privacy and ensuring confidentiality. However, in some circumstances, such as self-destructive behavior or maltreatment by others, they are not able to maintain confidentiality. Confidentiality and privacy are necessary to build trust with this age group. The nurse must be aware of the limits placed on confidentiality by local jurisdiction.