A nurse aide overhears a patient disclosing personal health information to a visitor. What should the nurse aide do?

Question

Accepted Answer

Respect the patient's confidentiality and not repeat the information to others. Patient confidentiality is a legal and ethical responsibility. The nurse aide should respect and protect patient privacy by not repeating information to others. Sharing information with staff (A) violates HIPAA unless necessary for direct care. Documenting overheard information (B) is inappropriate. While (D) may be tactful, the best answer is to respect confidentiality by not repeating the information.