Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

Unauthorized release of confidential patient information is called what?

1. Negligence

2. Invasion of privacy

3. Confidentiality breach

4. Fraud

The correct answer is: Invasion of privacy

The unauthorized release of confidential patient information is primarily referred to as a breach of confidentiality. This occurs when an individual's protected health information (PHI) is disclosed without their consent, violating the trust that is essential in the patient-care relationship. In this context, confidentiality is crucial, as healthcare professionals are obliged to protect sensitive patient information to safeguard their privacy rights. The unauthorized disclosure can arise from various actions, including careless handling of patient records, accidental sharing of information, or deliberate actions with malicious intent. While invasion of privacy pertains to broader violations of an individual's personal space and dignity, a breach of confidentiality specifically addresses the mishandling or unlawful sharing of sensitive health information. Therefore, the term 'breach of confidentiality' accurately captures the essence of the violation inherent in the unauthorized release of patient data.