When is it appropriate to discuss limits of confidentiality in a case consultation?

• A. When sharing information with colleagues for case consultation, ensure de-identified data and client consent where possible.
• B. Discuss confidential information with all clients' family members.
• C. Never discuss any case with anyone.
• D. Share full identifiers during consultation.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how to handle limits of confidentiality during case consultation. You can discuss a case with colleagues for supervision or consultation, but you must protect the client’s privacy. The best practice is to share de-identified information—remove names, exact dates, locations, contact details, and any other identifiers—and only include what is necessary for the clinical discussion. If possible, obtain the client’s consent to share information for consultation and document that consent. This approach lets professionals get the input they need while minimizing risk to the client.

Disclosing confidential information to family members or the public would exceed what’s appropriate unless there is explicit, informed consent from the client (or a legally mandated exception). Sharing full identifiers during consultation increases the risk of a privacy breach, so it’s not appropriate. And saying you should never discuss any case with anyone is impractical in clinical supervision and training, since consultation is a legitimate part of professional practice when done with proper safeguards.