Question

The nurse is caring for several clients. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to maintain client confidentiality?

A) Discuss client cases in the elevator with colleagues.

B) Share client information during a social gathering.

C) Use client names when discussing cases in a public area.

D) Conduct discussions about clients in a private and secure setting.

Answer 1

The nurse should conduct discussions about clients in a private and secure setting to maintain client confidentiality. This respects federal and state laws, and agency rules, while ensuring trust and safety for clients.

Step-by-step explanation:

To maintain client confidentiality, the nurse should perform actions that protect the client's personal information. Option D, conduct discussions about clients in a private and secure setting, is the appropriate course of action. Sharing protected health information in elevators, during social gatherings, or using client names in public areas can all lead to confidentiality breaches. When collaborating with others, nurses should only discuss client information in secure environments where the conversation cannot be overheard and always follow applicable agency, state, and federal confidentiality rules and regulations. Additionally, executing a confidentiality agreement with clients further emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality.