What is the appropriate approach when a privacy need competes with a safety concern?

• A. Wait for court order.
• B. Use least-restrictive, person-centered safety measures and obtain consent when possible.
• C. Ignore safety concerns.
• D. Apply safety measure without consent.

Answer: (B)

When privacy and safety must be balanced, the approach should protect the person’s rights while still ensuring their safety. The best practice is to use the least-restrictive, person-centered safety measures and obtain consent when possible. This means choose interventions that intrude on privacy the smallest amount necessary to keep the person safe, and tailor them to the individual’s preferences, values, and routines. Involve the person in decision-making if they have capacity, explain the options, and obtain consent. If capacity is lacking, involve a legally authorized representative and document the decision process. Regularly review and adjust safety measures to keep them as unobtrusive as possible and to avoid unnecessary monitoring or disclosure of private information.

For example, rather than applying a blanket restriction, opt for safety measures that align with the person’s needs and dignity, such as environmental modifications, supervised activities, or nonintrusive monitoring that preserves privacy. If consent cannot be obtained, proceed with the least-restrictive option supported by policy and legal requirements, ensuring ongoing assessment and documentation. Waiting for a court order is not appropriate for routine safety decisions, and ignoring safety concerns or enforcing measures without consent undermines trust and rights.