What should a nurse say when a client’s daughter requests access to her mother’s medical record?

When a client’s daughter requests access to her mother’s medical record, the appropriate response is to inform her that she must have her mother's permission for access to the records. This response upholds the principles of patient confidentiality and privacy, which are protected under laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Under these regulations, a healthcare provider cannot disclose a patient’s personal health information without the patient’s explicit consent, unless specific circumstances apply, such as a medical emergency or the patient being incapacitated.

The requirement for permission ensures that the client’s autonomy and right to privacy are respected. It also gives the client control over who can access their health information, reinforcing trust in the healthcare provider-patient relationship. When caregivers adhere to these regulations, they help maintain the integrity of the patient's private information and align with ethical standards in nursing practice.