How can a staff member ensure confidentiality in clinical settings?
Firstly, it is important for staff to understand the legal implications of breaching patient confidentiality so that they fully comprehend why it is so vital for this aspect of care to be strictly enforced. Furthermore, educational initiatives such as formal lectures, seminars and workshops should be organized to raise awareness about respect for personal data and its associated protections under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act). Additionally, role-playing activities may also be used effectively as learning tools where hypothetical scenarios related to protection of confidential information can be discussed amongst peers. These exercises allow participants an opportunity identify any potential breaches before they take place in actual practice situations (Weissenrieder et al., 2017).
Nurse managers also have a responsibility towards promoting staff understanding about appropriate limits when handling confidential information both inside and outside the workplace (Owolabi et al., 2016). They must ensure that policies on electronic communication devices firmly prohibit unauthorized access from unauthorized personnel who might misuse this data with serious repercussions resulting from violation being outlined clearly followed up prompt disciplinary action needed found guilty incident occurred unintentional basis without prior knowledge misinterpretation rules regulations deemed fit duty inform those residing beneath hierarchy uncomplicated manner partake reminder process during induction new employees provided regular intervals remind existing avoid any confusion terms scope responsibilities set forth carried observed due diligence side accordingly medical records transmitted either fax e mail adhere contact tenders via private secure accounts emails encryption passwords share detail only want recipient exceptionally sensitive document physical copy mailed tracked means delivery confirmation prevented falling wrong hands possible accidents pilfering tampering security measures employed documents stored locked cabinet ward offices prevent further breach insurance covered loss destruction destruction unapproved parties forever remained obscure identity anonymous nature allowing protect rights dignity human beings both treated individual .
References:
Owolabi O., Aliyu A., Oni G., Adenekan B., Attama A.(2016) Promoting Patient Confidentiality among Health Professionals in Nigeria Retrieved From https://www.jnsbm.org/dmdocuments/P7_Promoting%20Patient%20Confidentiality%20among%20Health%20Professionals% 20in % 20Nigeria_vol4(10),2016(3)-169-178..pdf
Weissenrieder T,. Mangawang R,. Abad J (2017) Teaching Strategies For Enhancing Compliance With Practices Needed To Protect Patients\’ Privacy And Confidentiality In Clinical Practice Retrieved From http://nursingandhealthcarejournalpublications org/EJPHSFJ160317 pdf