In order to release information to another health care facility ...

[acc299]

In order to release information to another health care facility or third party regarding a patient diagnosed with a mental illness, the nurse must obtain:
 
  a. a signed consent by the patient for release of information stating specific information to be released.
  b. a verbal consent for information release from the patient and the patient's guardian or next of kin.
  c. permission from members of the health care team who participate in treatment planning.
  d. approval from the attending psychiatrist to authorize the release of information.

Question 2

After leaving work, a nurse realizes documentation of administration of a PRN medication was omitted. This off-duty nurse phones the nurse on duty and says, Please document administration of the medication for me. My password is alpha1.
 
  The nurse receiving the call should:
 
  a. fulfill the request promptly.
  b. document the caller's password.
  c. refer the matter to the charge nurse to resolve.
  d. report the request to the patient's health care provider.

[millet]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Nurses have an obligation to protect patients' privacy and confidentiality. Clinical information should not be released without the patient's signed consent for the release.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Fraudulent documentation may be grounds for discipline by the state board of nursing. Referring the matter to the charge nurse will allow observance of hospital policy while ensuring that documentation occurs. Notifying the health care provider would be unnecessary when the charge nurse can resolve the problem. Nurses should not provide passwords to others.