If a CPSS is asked a question they cannot answer, what is the recommended approach?

If a CPSS is asked a question they cannot answer, what is the recommended approach?

• A. Avoid the question and change the subject.
• B. Provide an uncertain guess
• C. Not sure
• D. Acknowledge the limitation and offer to follow up.

Answer: (D)

Acknowledge the limitation and offer to follow up. When you can’t answer a question, being honest about what you don’t know helps maintain trust and safety in the peer relationship. Let the person know you don’t have the information at hand, share any related information you can, and commit to finding the correct answer and getting back to them with accurate details. This often means connecting with the right resource or supervisor and providing a clear timeline for follow-up, while you document the conversation and keep confidentiality boundaries. Avoid guessing or deflecting, since guessing can spread misinformation and leaving it unresolved undermines support. This approach shows professional integrity and responsibility in peer support.

Acknowledge the limitation and offer to follow up. When you can’t answer a question, being honest about what you don’t know helps maintain trust and safety in the peer relationship. Let the person know you don’t have the information at hand, share any related information you can, and commit to finding the correct answer and getting back to them with accurate details. This often means connecting with the right resource or supervisor and providing a clear timeline for follow-up, while you document the conversation and keep confidentiality boundaries. Avoid guessing or deflecting, since guessing can spread misinformation and leaving it unresolved undermines support. This approach shows professional integrity and responsibility in peer support.