A nurse in Texas completes a human trafficking screening but the patient becomes emotional and shuts down. According to trauma-informed care principles supported by Texas BON, the nurse should:

Brief Introduction: Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a clinical framework that recognizes the pervasive impact of psychological trauma on patient health. It prioritizes emotional safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment, aiming to prevent retraumatization by adjusting clinical interactions to support the patient's autonomy and physical sense of security during sensitive screenings. Rationale: A. When a patient becomes emotionally overwhelmed, the nurse must prioritize safety over data collection. Ending the interview demonstrates patient empowerment and builds trust, ensuring the nurse-patient relationship remains a therapeutic safe harbor rather than a source of further psychological distress. B. Pressing for details is contraindicated and violates the principle of non-maleficence. Forcing a patient to recount traumatic events when they are dysregulated can cause secondary traumatization. Clinical guidelines emphasize following the patient’s lead and respecting their boundaries to maintain a stable and supportive environment. C. Asking a companion is dangerous, as they may be the trafficker or an exploiter. In human trafficking scenarios, survivors are often monitored closely by their controllers. Relying on a third party for information compromises the patient’s safety and prevents the nurse from establishing a confidential, direct line of communication. D. Calling security is an escalation that can trigger a "fight or flight" response in trauma survivors. Unless there is an immediate physical threat, involving security creates a coercive environment that mimics the power dynamics used by traffickers, further alienating the patient from receiving necessary medical or social assistance.