Is it appropriate to relay confidential information between clinicians and family without patient consent?

• A. Yes, the interpreter should disclose confidential information to the family.
• B. Only with explicit patient consent to share with a named family member.
• C. Yes, whenever the clinician thinks it's appropriate.
• D. No; maintain confidentiality and follow facility policy, including any reporting obligations.

Answer: (D)

Confidentiality is the default in healthcare. Information learned in a clinical encounter belongs to the patient and should not be shared with family members without the patient's explicit consent. The interpreter’s role is to protect that privacy while ensuring accurate communication between clinicians and the patient. Sharing confidential details with a family member should only happen if the patient has clearly authorized sharing with a named person, or if the patient lacks decision-making capacity and a legally authorized representative is involved. Even then, disclose only the minimum necessary information and document consent.

There are times when policy or law requires sharing information—for example, mandated reporting or other safety-related obligations. In those cases, you follow the facility’s policies and report appropriately, rather than revealing confidential details to family by default.

So, without patient consent, it is not appropriate to relay confidential information to family; protect confidentiality and follow the relevant policies and reporting requirements.