Which of the following terms refers to personal information about a client that must be kept private?

The term that refers to personal information about a client that must be kept private is confidentiality. Confidentiality is a vital principle in healthcare and personal care settings, ensuring that clients' sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access and is only shared with individuals who have the right to know, typically for their care or legal obligations. Upholding confidentiality helps to establish a trusting relationship between clients and caregivers, as clients can feel safe sharing their personal information without fear of it being exposed to others.

In contrast, exposure refers to the situation of being subjected to something harmful or unwanted, often relating to risks rather than privacy. Disclosure pertains to the act of revealing or sharing information, which can be necessary in some contexts but is not protection itself. Transparency involves openness and clarity in communication and practices, which may sometimes conflict with the need for confidentiality, especially regarding personal data. Therefore, confidentiality is the most appropriate term to signify the protection of a client’s personal information.