What it means
A legal and ethical rule that protects what a client tells the care team and what is in the health record. In the United States, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets the rules. Information may be shared with staff caring for the client, and with others only when the client agrees or the law requires it, such as reporting abuse or certain infectious diseases.
For the nurse
Do not discuss clients in elevators, hallways or on social media, and never post photos. Log out of the computer, and look only at records of clients you care for. Check who the client allows to receive information before talking with family or callers.
In a chart
"Caller asked for an update on the client; nurse confirmed the caller was not on the client's approved list and gave no information."
At a glance
| Spanish | confidencialidad |
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Related terms
informed consent
A person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.
advocate
To speak up and act for a client's rights, safety and wishes; also, a person who does this.
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.