Ethical communication during a crisis requires accuracy, transparency, and responsibility to public trust. In a public health emergency, hospitals are highly scrutinized institutions, and how they communicate about sensitive issues such as PPE supply can directly affect credibility, employee morale, and public confidence. The most appropriate response is to confirm the current supply, explain the mitigation steps in place, and commit to ongoing communication.

Option C reflects best practices in ethical crisis communication. Acknowledging the five-day supply demonstrates honesty and avoids perceptions of concealment. Providing context about the expedited delivery process reassures stakeholders that leadership is actively managing the risk rather than ignoring it. Scheduling a follow-up call signals accountability and openness, reinforcing trust with the media and the public.

Option A (“no comment”) may appear evasive and can escalate suspicion, even if the information was leaked improperly. Ethical communication prioritizes public understanding over internal discomfort. Option B minimizes the situation and introduces unnecessary reassurance, which can damage credibility if circumstances change. Option D delays communication and creates uncertainty, increasing the likelihood of speculation or misinformation.

Strategic communication management emphasizes that trust is built not by perfection, but by transparency and preparedness. During crises, organizations must communicate what they know, what they are doing, and what will happen next. This approach balances factual disclosure with responsible framing, avoiding panic while maintaining integrity.

By confirming facts, explaining actions, and committing to follow-up, the communication consultant fulfills their ethical duty to inform accurately, protect the institution’s reputation, and support informed public discourse during a critical moment.