When asked for an update on Mr. Goodman by his boss, what should be the nurse's response?

In a healthcare setting, it is crucial for nurses to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to privacy regulations, such as HIPAA. When a boss inquires about a patient's status, the most appropriate and professional response is to direct them to the patient themselves for information. This upholds the patient's right to control who accesses their medical information, ensuring privacy is respected.

In contrast, providing a general update, discussing the patient's condition, or informing the boss about the treatment plan could divulge sensitive health information without the patient's consent. Without a proper release of information or permission from Mr. Goodman, sharing details may violate confidentiality standards and lead to ethical and legal issues. Therefore, guiding the boss to communicate with the patient directly is the correct action to maintain professionalism and comply with ethical guidelines.