As healthcare workers, nurses are responsible for protecting patient confidentiality. However, understanding the best ways to do so isn’t always simple and straightforward. HIPPA violations can have serious consequences for healthcare facilities, employees, and patients. There are some mistakes that nurses need to avoid. Be sure to keep tabs on mobile devices, tablets, and laptops that are used for recording patient information. Care must be taken to correctly store electronic files containing patient info. Proper procedures should always be followed to dispose of paper documentation, which typically involves shredding. Staying in compliance with the rules and regulations in a facility helps to ensure that both patients and employees are protected from privacy violations.
