When a patient lacks decision-making capacity and legal requirements authorize disclosure, how should prognosis be shared?

• A. Share prognosis with authorized individuals in accordance with legal requirements.
• B. Share prognosis with anyone who asks.
• C. Withhold prognosis entirely.
• D. Wait for a court order before disclosing.

Answer: (B)

When a patient can’t make decisions, sharing prognosis is guided by confidentiality and what the law allows. The information should go to those who are legally authorized to receive it—such as a designated health care proxy, guardian, or other surrogate who has decision-making authority—and only in line with legal requirements and institutional policies. This ensures the surrogate has what they need to make informed care decisions, while the patient’s privacy is protected. Communicate in clear, compassionate terms and tailor the level of detail to what the recipient needs to know to act on the information. Do not disclose to anyone who asks for details just because they inquire, as that would violate confidentiality. Withholding prognosis entirely or waiting for a court order when there is an authorized surrogate isn’t appropriate; disclose to the authorized person per policy and law, and seek a court order only if no surrogate exists or the law requires it in a specific situation.