The father of an 18-year-old girl who is being treated for generalized anxiety disorder with panic attacks calls the PMHNP with questions about the medications she was prescribed. He demands the information because the patient lives in his home and is on his health insurance plan. What should the nurse practitioner do?

Choice A reason: Providing even limited information would breach confidentiality and could undermine trust between the patient and the PMHNP. Choice B reason: This is the correct answer. At age 18, the patient is legally an adult and entitled to privacy regarding her medical treatment. The PMHNP must obtain her consent before sharing any information with her father, regardless of living arrangements or insurance coverage. Choice C reason: Answering all questions violates HIPAA regulations and patient confidentiality laws, even though she is covered under the father’s insurance. Choice D reason: Suggesting an appointment does not address the core confidentiality issue; the PMHNP must still refrain from sharing information without consent.