If an ethical question arises that makes you feel uncomfortable and you need time to think it through, Gunsalus says a few phrases can be offered to make sure the other person isn't offended but still gives you space to think. "I really need a little time to reflect. Will it be okay to tell you in twenty minutes?" or "Since I want to get things right for you, I'll circle back tomorrow to confirm my understanding and a proposed approach," among others, would work.

Mary Knox Merrill