A nurse is caring for an adolescent who has a history of violent behavior and has asked the nurse to keep confidential information about the desire to kill several classmates and a school teacher. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate to give?

Choice A reason: This is the correct response because threats of harm to others must be reported. The nurse has a duty to protect potential victims and involve the care team. This response balances honesty with safety and maintains therapeutic communication. Choice B reason: Redirecting the client to the psychiatrist avoids responsibility and does not address the immediate risk. The nurse must act on threats of violence, not defer them. Choice C reason: While parents may be involved in care, the priority is to share information with the interdisciplinary team responsible for safety planning. Limiting disclosure to parents alone is insufficient. Choice D reason: Promising confidentiality in this situation is inappropriate and unsafe. Threats of violence cannot remain confidential because they pose danger to others.