A client's family member asks the nurse whether the client has HIV. The client has not given permission to share health information. Which response is best?

The nurse must protect client confidentiality and cannot disclose HIV status without permission or a legal basis. Being a family member does not automatically grant access to private health information. The nurse should provide a respectful boundary and encourage the family member to speak with the client.

In-depth explanation

<span class='merci-scenario-label'>Clinical Judgment</span><br>Confidentiality questions test patient rights, not family curiosity.<br><br><span class='merci-scenario-label'>Memory Tip</span><br>No permission, no disclosure.

Clinical scenario

<span class='merci-scenario-label'>Clinical Practice Guide</span><br>Privacy protections require nurses to share health information only with authorized people and for appropriate care purposes.<br><br><span class='merci-scenario-label'>Caution</span><br>HIV status carries stigma and must be handled with strict privacy.

Key concepts

• Confidentiality — The ethical and legal duty to protect private client information.
• Protected Health Information — Identifiable health information that must be safeguarded.
• Authorization — Permission allowing specified health information to be shared.