A charge nurse on a mental health unit is preparing an in-service for staff members about client rights. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: Clients with severe mental illness retain the right to create psychiatric advance directives unless legally deemed incompetent. Denying this right violates autonomy and federal protections. Choice B reason: While a provider’s order is required for restraints, the priority is immediate safety. In emergencies, restraints may be applied first with a verbal order followed by a written one. Choice C reason: Clients may withdraw consent verbally or in writing. Requiring written withdrawal exclusively is overly restrictive and not supported by ethical or legal standards. Choice D reason: Confidentiality is a core principle, but exceptions exist. The duty to warn—such as when a client poses a serious threat to others—requires disclosure to protect potential victims, aligning with legal precedents like Tarasoff v. Regents.