Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam

A nurse's responsibility regarding patient privacy is fundamentally anchored in the principle of confidentiality. Keeping patient information confidential is essential in fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers. This obligation is not just a professional standard; it is also a mandate governed by legal requirements such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Under HIPAA regulations, nurses are tasked with protecting sensitive patient information from unauthorized access and disclosure, ensuring that only those with a legitimate need to know, such as other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care, have access to such details.

Maintaining confidentiality promotes a safe environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their health concerns without fear of judgment or breach of privacy. This critical responsibility enhances the quality of care and upholds ethical standards within the nursing profession.

The other choices highlight actions that contradict the requirement to maintain patient privacy. Discussing patient information openly with colleagues can lead to unauthorized disclosures and breaches of confidentiality. Sharing patient details on social media, even for awareness purposes, can violate privacy rights and lead to serious legal consequences. Allowing family members unrestricted access to patient records can compromise the patient's right to privacy unless explicit consent is given by the patient. These actions not only undermine patient trust but also violate legal and