A nurse is caring for an adolescent who requests screening for sexually transmitted infections (STI). The client asks the nurse. "Do you have to tell my parents?" How should the nurse respond to the adolescent?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. "We only have to tell your parents if your test comes back positive.": Giving conditional privacy based on test results is misleading. Confidentiality in STI testing applies regardless of the outcome and is protected by law in many regions for adolescents. B. "We need your parents' permission if you are on their insurance.": Insurance coverage does not determine the legal right to consent. While explanation of benefits forms may create confidentiality challenges, consent laws usually allow minors to access STI testing independently. C. "We will have to get your parents' consent before testing you for STIs.": Requiring parental consent for STI testing contradicts legal protections in many areas that allow minors to access sexual and reproductive health care without parental involvement. D. “We can test you for STIs without informing your parents.": Supporting the adolescent's autonomy and legal rights, this answer provides accurate information about confidential care and encourages open, respectful communication between the nurse and client.