A nurse is using a computerized documentation system in a health care facility.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure confidentiality and security?
(Select all that apply.).
A.
Log off the system when leaving the workstation.
B.
Shred any printouts before discarding them.
C.
Use a personal digital assistant (PDA) to access client information.
D.
Change the password at regular intervals.
E.
Report any breaches or attempted breaches to the appropriate authority.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To ensure confidentiality and security when using a computerized documentation system in a health care facility, the nurse should take the following actions:
A. Log off the system when leaving the workstation.
B. Shred any printouts before discarding them.
D. Change the password at regular intervals.
E. Report any breaches or attempted breaches to the appropriate authority.
Explanation:
A. Log off the system when leaving the workstation: It is crucial to log off the system to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive patient information. Leaving a workstation unattended while still logged in increases the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access by others who may use the computer. Logging off ensures that only the authorized user has access to the information.
B. Shred any printouts before discarding them: Physical copies of confidential information should be disposed of securely to prevent unauthorized access. Shredding printouts that contain patient information ensures that sensitive data is not retrievable from discarded documents, thereby protecting patient privacy and complying with HIPAA regulations.
D. Change the password at regular intervals: Regularly changing passwords reduces the risk of unauthorized access due to compromised or outdated credentials. This practice is part of a broader strategy to maintain the security of electronic systems and safeguard patient information. It prevents unauthorized users from gaining access to the system using old or guessed passwords.
E. Report any breaches or attempted breaches to the appropriate authority: Immediate reporting of any breaches or attempted breaches is essential for addressing security incidents and preventing further damage. Reporting allows the facility to take corrective actions, investigate the breach, and implement measures to prevent future incidents. This aligns with legal and organizational requirements for managing data security.
C. Use a personal digital assistant (PDA) to access client information: While this might be an option in some cases, it is not listed as a best practice for ensuring confidentiality and security. PDAs or other portable devices can pose additional security risks if not properly secured or if they are lost or stolen. The primary focus should be on secure and authorized access methods and ensuring all devices and systems are protected.
In summary, to ensure confidentiality and security, the nurse must focus on logging off from systems, shredding printouts, regularly changing passwords, and reporting any security issues. These actions collectively help maintain the integrity and confidentiality of patient information in a healthcare setting.