A nurse is on the elevator and overhears two nurses discussing a client on the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Tell the nurses to stop the discussion.
• B. Complete a written warning for each of the nurses.
• C. Discuss the occurrence with the client.
• D. Report the issue to the ethics committee.

Answer: (A)

Protecting patient confidentiality is what this item emphasizes. When sensitive information about a client is discussed in a public space, it can be overheard by others and violates privacy and trust. The appropriate first step is to intervene right away by telling the two nurses to stop the discussion and remind them that patient information should be kept confidential and discussed only in appropriate, private settings. This demonstrates vigilance in safeguarding the client’s rights and upholding professional standards.

If this kind of issue occurs again or continues, follow the unit’s policy for addressing breaches—such as informing a supervisor or documenting the incident according to workplace procedures. Escalating to a written warning or involving the ethics committee isn’t the right immediate action for a single overheard discussion. Discussing the occurrence with the client would risk exposing the breach and could undermine the client’s trust, so it’s not appropriate.