In which scenario might a conflict of interest arise in patient care?

A conflict of interest in patient care can arise when a healthcare provider has a personal relationship with a patient because this relationship may influence the provider's judgment or decisions regarding the patient’s care. Personal relationships can affect objectivity, potentially leading to favoritism or biased treatment decisions that are not in the best interests of the patient. This situation challenges the ethical obligation of healthcare professionals to act in their patients' best interests and maintain professional boundaries.

In contrast, selecting the cheapest medication could be seen as a financial decision rather than a personal conflict; collaboration on patient care typically enhances outcomes and doesn't lead to conflicts; and maintaining patient confidentiality is a foundational ethical principle in healthcare that protects patient trust and does not create a conflict of interest.