In this podcast you will listen to a scenario where the topic is confidentiality. As you listen think about what you could have done in the given situation and if it would have been right.
You are in the hospital elevator and you are overhearing a conversation between 2 teenagers; one confides to the other that he is “tired of living” and plans on “doing something to end it” upon his discharge from hospital that day.
What is your responsibility?
Student B: I don’t know this person…it’s a tough call…Can I identify them? I don’t know for sure that they plan on doing anything.
Student A: I guess I would follow him to the ward, and request to speak to the on-call staff and explain what I heard in the elevator. It may make a difference in the treatment plan and in the discharge planning. Maybe the staff is unaware of this kid’s plan!
Teacher: You’re right. Some patients are purposefully withholding important information from their caregivers because they know they won’t have outing privileges or that they may not get discharged if the health care team knows of their plans.
Student B: But the patient may just be “manipulating” his friend also….
Teacher: Yes, that is a possibility. Except in this particular case, you are allowed to breach confidentiality if you have reasons to believe this person may cause harm to themselves or others. In this case, you can directly discuss this with the patient’s care team.
Student A: So in other words, whenever there is talk of a life-threatening situation, we’re always to take it seriously.
Teacher: Yes. So it comes down to this: basically, you want to discuss patient related stuff only in designated areas, only with the people who should know, and only at the appropriate time. It’s a huge responsibility you are entrusted with. Just remember, treat others like you would like to be treated. Trust and respect are really important. Leave your cell phone in your locker, be careful what you text about, what you talk about, and be professional at all times. When in doubt, you’re best to say nothing and to talk to your supervisor about the issue. (last word chopped)