What should the receiving BCBA do when given a client's file before written consent during maternity leave?

What should the receiving BCBA do when given a client's file before written consent during maternity leave?

• A. Keep the file for ongoing care.
• B. Copy the file for backup.
• C. Return the file.
• D. Share the contents with colleagues.

Answer: (C)

Access to client records must be limited to those with proper written consent and assigned authority. If a BCBA receives a client file before written consent, especially while on maternity leave, the appropriate action is to return the file to the sender or the designated authority and arrange for a proper, consented handover. This protects confidentiality, prevents unauthorized access or disclosure, and aligns with ethical expectations that records are handled only with explicit permission and by the person or team authorized to review them. Keeping or copying the file, or sharing its contents with colleagues without consent, would risk breaches of confidentiality. Returning the file and coordinating through the proper channels ensures the client’s information is managed correctly and transparently.

Access to client records must be limited to those with proper written consent and assigned authority. If a BCBA receives a client file before written consent, especially while on maternity leave, the appropriate action is to return the file to the sender or the designated authority and arrange for a proper, consented handover. This protects confidentiality, prevents unauthorized access or disclosure, and aligns with ethical expectations that records are handled only with explicit permission and by the person or team authorized to review them. Keeping or copying the file, or sharing its contents with colleagues without consent, would risk breaches of confidentiality. Returning the file and coordinating through the proper channels ensures the client’s information is managed correctly and transparently.