What should a nurse practitioner tell a patient's adult child who inquires about the patient's illness?

The correct response highlights the importance of patient confidentiality and respect for patient autonomy. In healthcare, particularly in scenarios involving sensitive information such as a patient's illness, it is fundamental that healthcare providers maintain the privacy rights of their patients. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) outlines the regulations surrounding patient information and establishes that personal health details can only be shared with the patient or designated representatives with proper consent.

Telling the adult child that information can only be discussed with the patient emphasizes the nurse practitioner's commitment to protecting the patient's rights and confidentiality. It not only adheres to legal regulations but also fosters trust between the patient and the healthcare provider, ensuring that the patient feels confident that their information is safeguarded.

In contrast, options that involve assuring the child of full disclosure or requiring a visit for details may violate these confidentiality norms, as they do not respect the patient’s right to control who receives their health information. Requesting an advance directive would also not address the immediate concern of sharing specific information about the patient's illness and may not be relevant in this context without the patient's consent.