What is the ethical protocol for collaborating with other professionals about a client's care?

• A. Share all information with every professional involved, irrespective of consent.
• B. Obtain client consent, share only necessary information, coordinate in the client's best interests, and protect privacy.
• C. Share information only with supervisors.
• D. Never coordinate with other professionals.

Answer: (C)

Ethically, collaborating with other professionals means balancing the client’s privacy with the need for coordinated care. The essential practice is to obtain the client’s informed consent before sharing information, and then disclose only what is necessary to support treatment and safety. Information should be shared with other treating professionals to ensure continuity of care and the best possible outcomes, while privacy protections and relevant laws are respected. Documentation of what is shared and with whom helps maintain transparency and accountability. Sharing solely with supervisors or avoiding collaboration undermines the goal of integrated care, and disclosures without consent violate confidentiality. If there are exceptional circumstances such as imminent risk or legal requirements, these are handled according to established guidelines and with appropriate guidance.