Author Question: Which of the following best describes when the nurse can share confidential information about an ... (Read 58 times)

WhattoUnderstand · **on:** Jul 8, 2018

Which of the following best describes when the nurse can share confidential information about an employee's health with others? (Select all that apply.)

a. If needed for workers' compensation documents
b. If a life-threatening emergency occurs
c. If authorized by the employee to specific recipients, such as insurance companies or health care providers
d. If requested by the employer for management purposes
e. In compliance with governmental laws and regulation
f.
In educational programs so others can avoid similar injuries and risks

Question 2

An unidentified patient was injured in a hit-and-run accident and was conscious. When asked how he felt, the patient looked very confused and responded in a language the nurse did not recognize. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

a. Look closely at the person, try to determine the patient's ethnic background, and then seek someone fluent in his language
b. Report the language barrier to administration, and let them handle the problem
c. Tell the unit supervisor so various translators can be brought to the floor until the language is recognized and communication can be established
d. Use gestures and pantomime until the nurse is able to determine what language the patient is speaking

sailorcrescent · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 8, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, B, C, E
Occupational health nurses sometimes experience ethical dilemmas because of dual responsibility to both their employer and employees. In dealing with health information, the employee has a right to privacy and should be protected from unauthorized and inappropriate disclosure of personal information (AAOHN, 2004, p. 1). Exceptions can, and in some situations must, be made, however. These include: (1) life-threatening emergencies, (2) authorization by the employee to release information to others (e.g., insurance company, health care provider), (3) workers' compensation information, and (4) compliance with government laws and regulations. The nurse is unable to share confidential information about an employee's health with the employer for management purposes or during an educational program.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The nurse can report the problem and request a translator, but in the meantime the nurse should pantomime words and simple actions while verbalizing them until communication can be established using a translator from his culture. Just looking at a patient will not allow you to assume his or her ethnic background.