What is the least amount of information that should be disclosed when consulting with colleagues about clients?

When consulting with colleagues about clients, the least amount of information that should be disclosed is the least amount necessary. This principle aligns with the ethical obligation to maintain client confidentiality as outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics. Social workers are responsible for ensuring that any information shared in a consultation is pertinent to the case and necessary for the purpose of the consultation.

Disclosing only the essential details minimizes the risk of breaching confidentiality and protects the client's privacy. It also reflects the ethical principle of respect for the client's dignity and worth. In practice, this means sharing just enough information to facilitate effective consultation without compromising the client's trust or personal information.

Other options suggest more extensive disclosures that may not be necessary for the colleague to understand the situation or provide useful input. For instance, sharing a client's full history or all relevant details may lead to potential confidentiality breaches, which is contrary to the ethical standards social workers are required to uphold. Similarly, providing general recommendations does not focus on the need for confidentiality, as it may sometimes require more context than is necessary.