Veracity in nursing entails truth-telling. Which approach best handles disclosure of an error to a patient?

• A. Disclose the error only if the patient asks.
• B. Disclose errors honestly, apologize, outline corrective actions, and ensure patient safety.
• C. Conceal the error to avoid distress.
• D. Blame the nursing staff to diffuse responsibility.

Answer: (B)

Veracity means truth-telling in nursing. When an error occurs, the ethical path is to disclose it honestly, apologize, explain what happened, outline the corrective actions being taken, and ensure steps are in place to protect patient safety going forward. This approach respects patient autonomy by giving them complete information to participate in decisions about their care, builds and preserves trust, and aligns with professional standards and the duty to prevent harm. It also helps the patient understand how the situation will be remedied and what protections are now in place to prevent recurrence. Disclosing only if asked places the patient in a position of having to seek out information about their own care, which can erode trust. Concealing an error is deceptive and violates ethical obligations to honesty and nonmaleficence. Blaming others to diffuse responsibility fails to address the patient’s needs and undermines safety and accountability.