A patient with a skull fracture is unconscious but has an advance directive and power of attorney. Some friends visit and ask the nurse about the patient's prognosis. How should the nurse respond?

Explanation

•The nurse cannot discuss confidential information without the patient's consent or the consent of his power of attorney.

•The nurse should politely inform the visitors that she cannot discuss patient information. 

•Incorrect: The nurse cannot provide any information at all about the patient's condition or direct them to ask the patient's DPOA. Even revealing the patient's DPOA status is a HIPAA violation without approval from the Power of Attorney.

Visit our website for other NCLEX topics now!