According to the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals' Code of Ethics, what should professionals do if they are unclear about disclosing confidential information?

Professionals are encouraged to seek feedback from qualified individuals when they encounter uncertainty about disclosing confidential information. This recommendation aligns with the ethical principle of ensuring the protection of clients' confidentiality and privacy. By consulting with experienced colleagues, supervisors, or legal advisors, professionals can navigate complex situations involving sensitive information more effectively. This process not only helps in clarifying the ethical and legal obligations related to confidentiality but also fosters a culture of accountability and support among direct support professionals.

In contrast, the other options may not uphold the ethical standards required in such situations. Divulging information without proper guidance could lead to breaches of confidentiality and undermine trust between professionals and those they support. Reporting concerns to the state may be appropriate in specific instances, but it typically follows a failure to address confidentiality issues internally first. Creating an action plan may be useful in some contexts, but it does not specifically address the immediate need for clarity regarding confidentiality that the situation demands. Therefore, seeking feedback is the most appropriate and ethical course of action.