In England and Wales, an adult with capacity tells the nurse that information about a diagnosis must remain confidential. The nurse later learns that withholding the information could expose another identifiable person to a serious and immediate risk of harm. What should the nurse do?

Correct answer: C. Escalate the concern and disclose only necessary information

  • A. Share the complete record with everyone involved
  • B. Keep confidentiality regardless of any risk
  • C. Escalate the concern and disclose only necessary information
  • D. Ask the patient’s relative to decide what may be shared

Explanation

Confidentiality is important but is not absolute where disclosure is necessary to prevent serious harm or protect others. The nurse should seek senior or safeguarding advice and share the minimum relevant information through an appropriate process.

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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