What should you do if a family member requests information about a client’s condition?

Referring the family member to the supervising nurse or doctor is the appropriate action in this situation because healthcare professionals are trained to handle sensitive information and maintain confidentiality protocols. Personal Support Workers must adhere to privacy laws and ethical guidelines, which emphasize the importance of protecting client information. Family members do not have the legal right to access a client’s medical details without consent, and sharing such information directly can lead to legal repercussions for the caregiver and compromise the client's privacy.

While telling the family member that the information is confidential highlights the importance of privacy, the best course of action involves redirecting the inquiry to the appropriate medical authority who can provide the necessary information within the guidelines of patient confidentiality. Additionally, asking the client for permission to share could be a consideration, but it would still be essential to follow the proper channels and protocols set by the healthcare facility, ensuring that any information shared is appropriate and authorized.