A patient diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia believes that evil spirits are being stirred by a local minister and verbally threatens to bomb a local church. The psychiatrist notifies the minister. What is the basis for this action?
a. Information cannot be released without proper authorization.
b. There is a duty to warn and protect.
c. No action can violate the patient's confidentiality.
d. Charges of malpractice must be avoided.
B
It is the health care professional's duty to warn or notify an intended victim after a threat of harm has been made. Informing a potential victim of a threat is a legal responsibility of the health care professional. It is not considered a violation of confidentiality or an example of malpractice.
You might also like to view...
A 77-year-old male patient who has been diagnosed with lung cancer is discussing treatment options with his oncologist. Which of the following factors is most likely to make the patient's treatment more complicated than that of a younger patient?
A) Radiation treatment is not an option for most patients over age 70. B) Age-related decline in kidney function can affect drug therapy. C) The client is unlikely to be a candidate for surgery. D) Fewer pharmacologic treatment options exist for older adult clients.
Your patient, age 79, is admitted with a change in mental status with recent and remote memory loss. The family tells you that his forgetfulness has gotten progressively worse over the past 6 months. This change in mental status describes:
A) Delirium. B) Dementia. C) Depression.
The temperature of an aquathermia pad is usually:
a. 100° F b. 105° F c. 110° F d. 115° F
The client asks whether herbal medicines are a "good idea." The nurse's best response is:
1. "Things found in nature are always healthy." 2. "If your doctor didn't prescribe it, don't take it." 3. "Are there specific ones you're wondering about?" 4. "Everything is good in moderation."