What must a physical therapist do if they believe confidentiality could harm someone?

When a physical therapist believes that maintaining confidentiality could result in harm to someone, the professional responsibility involves balancing the ethical duty to keep a client's information private with the obligation to protect individuals who might be at risk. The correct action in this scenario is to notify the patient, as doing so respects the patient’s autonomy while also addressing the concern for potential harm. Seeking the patient’s consent to disclose relevant information aligns with ethical standards and legal requirements, allowing for potential interventions while preserving the trust inherent in the therapist-client relationship.

This approach emphasizes communication, as it enables the therapist to involve the patient in the decision-making process regarding their own information. It reflects a consideration of the bigger picture, where patient safety and informed consent become paramount. Additionally, this approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also adheres to legal frameworks that often provide avenues for disclosure in situations where there is a clear risk of harm, thus supporting the therapist's capability to act responsibly.