A 16-year-old emancipated client is being seen in the emergency department following a minor automobile accident. The client's parents arrive and are asking questions about the client's laboratory results. Which response is best for the nurse to provide?

Choice A: "I'm sorry, but your child's medical information is none of your business." is not a good response because it is rude and disrespectful. The nurse should maintain professionalism and empathy when dealing with parents.

Choice B: "I can give you those results as soon as I get them back from the lab." is not a good response because it violates confidentiality and privacy. The nurse should not share any medical information with anyone without the client's consent.

Choice C: "The healthcare provider will share this information with you." is not a good response because it implies that the parents have a right to know their child's medical information. The nurse should not make promises or assumptions that may not be true.

Choice D: "I can only give medical information to your child because they are legally an adult." is a good response because it explains the legal status of an emancipated minor and respects their autonomy. The nurse should inform the parents that their child has the right to make their own decisions regarding their health care.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because removing needle before discarding used syringes may expose the client or others to accidental needlestick injuries. The needle and syringe should be disposed of as a single unit in a puncture-resistant container.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because wearing gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe is not necessary if the client does not have contact with blood or body fluids. Gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because washing hands before handling the needle and syringe reduces the risk of infection and contamination. Hand hygiene is the most important measure to prevent transmission of microorganisms.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because donning a face mask before administering the medication is not required unless the medication is aerosolized or nebulized. A face mask does not protect against needlestick injuries or bloodborne pathogens.