Which action best protects patient privacy in record handling?

Which action best protects patient privacy in record handling?

• A. Discussing patient information with a family member not involved in care
• B. Shredding documents containing patient information
• C. Keeping patient records in a locked cabinet
• D. Emailing patient data to colleagues

Answer: (C)

Protecting patient privacy hinges on restricting access to records to those who are authorized. Keeping patient records in a locked cabinet provides a reliable physical barrier that prevents unauthorized individuals from viewing or stealing information when records are stored or being transported within the facility. This aligns with confidentiality standards and common healthcare privacy policies. Shredding documents is important for disposal, but it only addresses disposal, not ongoing access. Discussing patient information with a family member not involved in care breaches confidentiality. Emailing patient data to colleagues is not appropriate unless done through approved, secure channels and with proper authorization; in general it poses a risk of interception. Therefore, the best action for protecting privacy in record handling is to keep records secured in a locked cabinet.

Protecting patient privacy hinges on restricting access to records to those who are authorized. Keeping patient records in a locked cabinet provides a reliable physical barrier that prevents unauthorized individuals from viewing or stealing information when records are stored or being transported within the facility. This aligns with confidentiality standards and common healthcare privacy policies. Shredding documents is important for disposal, but it only addresses disposal, not ongoing access. Discussing patient information with a family member not involved in care breaches confidentiality. Emailing patient data to colleagues is not appropriate unless done through approved, secure channels and with proper authorization; in general it poses a risk of interception. Therefore, the best action for protecting privacy in record handling is to keep records secured in a locked cabinet.