The director of nursing reprimands the nursing staff for which violations of HIPAA policy? Select all that apply.
A The patient’s nurse asks the patient if their neighbor, who is at the nurses station, can visit now.
B The patient’s nurse uses the facility computer to document the patient’s bath and linen change.
C A nurse looks at the chart of their neighbor so that the nurse can add them to the prayer list at church.
D A nurse fails to log off the computer charting system after documenting patient care.
E A nurse discusses a patient with a coworker in the elevator.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answers are C, D, and E.
Explanation:
C. A nurse looks at the chart of their neighbor so that the nurse can add them to the prayer list at church.
This scenario is a violation of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) policy because it involves accessing patient information without a legitimate clinical reason or the patient’s consent. HIPAA requires that access to patient information be limited to individuals who need it to perform their job duties. Looking at a neighbor’s medical records to add them to a personal prayer list does not constitute a valid reason for accessing patient information and breaches confidentiality.
D. A nurse fails to log off the computer charting system after documenting patient care.
Failing to log off a computer system is a violation of HIPAA because it poses a risk of unauthorized access to patient information. When a nurse leaves a computer unattended and logged in, it creates an opportunity for others to view or alter patient data without proper authorization. This lapse in security compromises patient confidentiality and the integrity of their medical records.
E. A nurse discusses a patient with a coworker in the elevator.
Discussing patient information in a public or semi-public setting like an elevator is a clear violation of HIPAA. Conversations about patient care should only occur in private and secure environments where unauthorized individuals cannot overhear. Sharing patient information in an elevator exposes the details to anyone within earshot, breaching the patient’s privacy and confidentiality.
Not Violations:
A. The patient’s nurse asks the patient if their neighbor, who is at the nurses station, can visit now.
This action is not a violation of HIPAA as it involves seeking the patient’s consent for a visitor. HIPAA permits healthcare providers to discuss patient-related matters with the patient themselves, including queries about their preferences for visitors.
B. The patient’s nurse uses the facility computer to document the patient’s bath and linen change.
Using a facility computer to document patient care is a routine part of nursing responsibilities and does not violate HIPAA, provided the system is secure and access is limited to authorized personnel. Proper documentation is essential for patient care and record-keeping.
HIPAA violations focus on unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss of patient information. Ensuring that patient information is handled with the utmost confidentiality and security is essential for compliance with HIPAA regulations.