Patient-Doctor Communication · USMLE Step 1

A patient asks the physician to keep her recent HIV diagnosis confidential from her spouse. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. I am obligated to inform your spouse immediately.
  2. This stays confidential; let's find safe ways to tell him.
  3. You really should tell them, but I won't help with that.
  4. I would rather not get involved in your personal matters.
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Correct answer: This stays confidential; let's find safe ways to tell him.

Physicians should maintain confidentiality while encouraging safe and responsible disclosure.

Difficulty: Medium Question 7 of 20

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