If someone is having problems on the job, is it okay for the HR person to directly ask the employee if they are fearful or intimadated? Or this that being too direct or leading the employee?

I really don't think asking an employee if they are fearful or feel intimidated are out of the way. Is this an HR person who is specifically trained to handle employees in this manner?

Please explain further. Did the empoyee seek help ?

I am the generalist.. and during a meeting between the director and employee.. that employee was extremely ill and stayed at work. Ultimately 911 was called she went to the hospital and after being released STILL returned to work. I asked her did she do that out of fear or intimidation and she stated yes she did. After the meeting the director sd I should have never asked that question because it could give her ideas of a lawsuit and I am giving her something to think about. I was curious.

I see what you mean now. Maybe she did, or maybe she didn't want to lose the wages from being off.

I see the director's side too. But who could ever say if a lawsuit would come out of that situation?