How should a nurse respond to a patient's request for information that is beyond their knowledge?

When a nurse encounters a patient's request for information that exceeds their knowledge, directing the patient to another healthcare professional who is equipped to provide accurate information is the most appropriate response. This approach ensures that the patient receives reliable and evidence-based information tailored to their needs. By referring the patient to someone who has the appropriate expertise, the nurse not only upholds their professional responsibility to provide safe and effective care, but also fosters trust and maintains the integrity of healthcare communication.

Additionally, this response aligns with the principles of interprofessional collaboration, which emphasizes the importance of teamwork in healthcare. Not only does this protect the patient from potentially misleading information, but it also encourages them to seek the expertise that is necessary for their particular question or concern.

Providing information to the best of one’s ability could lead to misinformation, which is not in the best interest of the patient. Guessing and offering plausible answers would further jeopardize the accuracy of care and could result in misunderstandings or harm. Telling the patient they cannot provide any information might leave them feeling unsupported and confused, which does not reflect the empathetic approach expected in nursing practice.