What are examples of breeches in confidentiality in care?

[Friendlyafternoon827]

Suppose a nurse purposely checks medical records of friends or family members and then acts on that information. When the nurse is subsequently caught, how should a nurse manager handle this breach in patient confidentiality?Patient confidentiality and privacy rights are a serious matter in the eyes of the law. Access to patient information is for the people assigned to provide care, and is on a "need-to-know" basis.1 Each state's nursing practice act and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ensure the protection of patient privacy and rights. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) addresses patient confidentiality and protects patients and their medical records, including current and past medical treatment and past medical records, in addition to billing records.2 In instances where medical information is needed for something other than treatment, a written authorization or disclosure form must be obtained.