In England, a patient with capacity tells the nurse, “I do not want my partner told about my diagnosis.” The partner asks for an update. What should the nurse do?

Correct answer: C. Keep the information confidential unless the patient agrees

  • A. Share limited information to maintain family support
  • B. Share the diagnosis because the partner is next of kin
  • C. Keep the information confidential unless the patient agrees
  • D. Ask the partner to obtain the information from the doctor

Explanation

A patient with capacity controls access to confidential health information. The nurse must not disclose the diagnosis to the partner without the patient’s consent, unless a lawful exception applies. Being next of kin does not give an automatic right to confidential information.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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About UK Law, Consent and Mental Capacity

UK consent and capacity law covers valid voluntary consent, adequate information, refusal of treatment, and the Mental Capacity Act principles for assessing decision specific capacity. It includes best interests decisions, least restrictive care, advance decisions and lasting powers of attorney, with capacity distinguished from mental illness, and legal capacity distinguished from clinical competence or mere agreement.

Practise UK Law, Consent and Mental Capacity

50 free UK Law, Consent and Mental Capacity MCQs from International Nursing Practice, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

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