What is the recommended practice regarding sharing crisis planning information with supports?

• A. Always share information with supports regardless of consent.
• B. Do not share any information with supports.
• C. Share only after written consent from the client.
• D. Share information to supports only with client consent and respect preferences.

Answer: (D)

Sharing crisis planning information with supports should always align with the client’s consent and stated preferences. This approach respects the person’s autonomy and privacy while still allowing trusted supports to be involved in a way that enhances safety and continuity of care. When you share, be clear about exactly what information can be shared, with whom, and under what circumstances, and document these details in the crisis plan. If the client has indicated they do not want certain people to know certain details, honor those preferences unless there is an urgent safety need or a legal requirement that overrides them. This balance—obtaining consent and honoring preferences—keeps the client at the center, builds trust, and protects confidentiality while still enabling coordinated support during a crisis.