question: Q:A 54-year-old man suffered an anterior wall myocardial infarction that was managed in the cath lab with emergent coronary stenting and revascularization. The patient states that his wife, adult children, and cousins may be disclosed information regarding his care and health information. The patient has been progressing well without any further complications since his initial catheterization. On hospital day #3, a woman stops you in the hall outside of the patient's room whom you recognize as the patient's cousin. She asks you about the patient's prognosis and how the patient is progressing after his heart attack. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?? 
  {'A': 'Direct the woman to discuss these issues with the patient himself', 'B': "Discuss the patient's hospital course and expected prognosis with the woman", 'C': "Ask for identification confirming that the woman is truly the patient's cousin", 'D': 'Decline to comment per HIPAA patient confidentiality regulations', 'E': 'Ask the patient if it is acceptable to share information with this individual'},