The spouse of a patient who has delusions asks the nurse, "Are there any circumstances under which the treatment team is justified in violating the patient's right to confidentiality?" The nurse must reply that confidentiality may be breached:

A) under no circumstances.
B) at the discretion of the psychiatrist.
C) when questions are asked by law enforcement.
D) if the patient threatens the life of another person.

Question

Bradley Brown · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : D, Explanation :  The duty to warn a person whose life has been threatened by a patient under psychiatric treatment overrides the patient's right to confidentiality. The right to confidentiality is not suspended at the discretion of the therapist or for legal investigations.

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