When providing care to a client diagnosed with a mental disorder, the client asks the nurse, “Does mental illness run in your family?” Which response by the nurse would be nontherapeutic?

Choice A reason:
Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors is important for maintaining order and safety within the facility. However, this action is more about setting boundaries and expectations rather than supporting the client’s autonomy. Autonomy involves respecting the client’s right to make their own decisions, which is not directly addressed by merely explaining rules.
Choice B reason:
Supporting the client’s wish to refuse prescribed medications demonstrates respect for the client’s autonomy. Autonomy is the ethical principle that recognizes the right of individuals to make informed decisions about their own care. By supporting the client’s decision to refuse medication, the nurse acknowledges and respects the client’s right to make choices about their treatment, even if those choices differ from medical advice.
Choice C reason:
Making sure the client understands expectations for client participation is essential for clear communication and effective treatment planning. However, this action is more about ensuring compliance and understanding rather than promoting autonomy. While it is important for clients to understand what is expected of them, this does not necessarily empower them to make their own decisions.
Choice D reason:
Encouraging client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience is a valuable practice for improving care and ensuring that clients feel heard. However, this action focuses on gathering feedback rather than directly supporting the client’s autonomy. While it contributes to a client-centered approach, it does not specifically address the client’s right to make independent decisions about their care.

Choice A reason:
Agreeing to send the information without the client’s consent is a breach of confidentiality. Healthcare providers must protect patient privacy and cannot disclose medical information without explicit permission from the client.
Choice B reason:
While obtaining the client’s signed consent is necessary before releasing information, this response still acknowledges that the person in question is a client, which could be a breach of confidentiality.
Choice C reason:
Stating that the information cannot be given out is correct, but it still indirectly confirms that the person is a client, which could be a breach of confidentiality.
Choice D reason:
“I am unable to acknowledge whether or not your employee is a client on this unit” is the most appropriate response. This statement protects the client’s privacy by not confirming or denying their presence in the unit, thus maintaining confidentiality.