Question

A nurse manager is overseeing the care activities on a unit. For which of the following situations should the nurse manager intervene due to a violation of HIPAA guidelines?

a) A nurse discusses a client's care plan with another nurse during a shift change report.
b) A nursing student accesses a family member's medical records for a case study without permission.
c) A nurse discusses a client's condition with their spouse in a private office.
d) A healthcare provider discusses a client's lab results with them during rounds in a semi-private room.

Answer 1

The nurse manager should intervene in option b) because a nursing student accessing a family member's medical records without permission violates HIPAA guidelines.

Step-by-step explanation:

The situation for which the nurse manager should intervene due to a violation of HIPAA guidelines is option b) A nursing student accessing a family member's medical records without permission for a case study. HIPAA regulations require healthcare providers to maintain strict confidentiality of patient records, and accessing medical records without permission is a violation of these guidelines.

Although it is important for healthcare professionals to discuss a client's care plan and condition, options a) and c) do not involve a violation of HIPAA guidelines. Such discussions are typically necessary for providing appropriate and coordinated care to the patient. Option d) also does not violate HIPAA guidelines, as discussing a client's lab results with them during rounds in a semi-private room does not involve disclosing confidential information to unauthorized individuals.