What should you do if a client asks you to breach privacy or confidentiality?

What should you do if a client asks you to breach privacy or confidentiality?

• A. Refuse; explain legal or policy obligations; notify supervisor; do not disclose.
• B. Agree to disclose if asked.
• C. Wait for supervisor to decide.
• D. Document the request and comply in part.

Answer: (A)

Protecting client information is fundamental. When a request asks you to breach privacy or confidentiality, the right move is to refuse and clearly explain that you’re bound by legal or policy obligations to keep information confidential. You should escalate the matter by notifying your supervisor or the appropriate authority, so the case handoff follows proper procedures and the organization’s rules are upheld. Do not disclose any confidential details. Also, document the request and your response to create a clear record of how you handled it. Only consider disclosure if there is a legal requirement or an explicit policy that permits it, and even then disclose only the minimum information necessary. This approach preserves trust, reduces risk of harm to the client, and ensures you act within established guidelines.