Which approach best supports confidentiality while maintaining safety when planning crises?

• A. Involve the client in decisions and document consent, sharing only necessary information with supports.
• B. Involve supports without consent.
• C. Do not involve client; act independently.
• D. Document and discuss with supervisor only, with no client involvement.

Answer: (A)

Confidentiality and safety in crisis planning hinge on involving the client in decisions and obtaining clear consent before sharing information. This respects the client’s autonomy and privacy while still enabling needed supports to intervene if a risk is present. Documenting consent creates a transparent record of what can be shared and with whom, which helps protect the client and provides accountability for all involved.

Choosing not to involve the client or to share information without consent erodes trust and undermines the client’s control over their own plan. Relying on supports without consent or keeping the plan behind closed doors with a supervisor excludes the client from the process, which can reduce engagement and hinder effective, person-centered safety planning.