Testing the Limits of Patient Confidentiality

Jane is a mental health student on placement at a mental health support organisation. One of the key values of the organisation, as well as something Jane agreed to when she signed a placement contract, was to ensure the confidentiality of the clients at all times. Jane works part-time at a mall in the weekends. One day at the mall, Jane recognises a client from placement when she comes to the counter to make some purchases. While at the counter, the client and Jane politely exchange small talk, as Jane's coworker realises that the two seem to know each other. "Where do you two know each other from?", she asks, before the client has left the counter. Jane hesitates. The client might not want people knowing she needs the services of a mental health organisation. Should Jane make up a lie about where they know each other? Or should she give a very vague description, which might lead her coworker to ask more questions? Should she abruptly change the subject or ignore her coworker?