Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

Which of the following actions reflects a violation of confidentiality in a healthcare setting?

1. Sharing patient information with a direct supervisor

2. Discussing a patient case privately with a colleague

3. Releasing patient information to the public

4. Obtaining verbal consent before discussing treatment with another doctor

The correct answer is: Releasing patient information to the public

The action of releasing patient information to the public constitutes a clear violation of confidentiality in a healthcare setting. Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in healthcare that protects the privacy of patients and their personal health information. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States establishes strict guidelines for the handling of patient information, emphasizing that such information should only be shared with authorized individuals and institutions for legitimate purposes related to patient care. When patient information is released publicly, it not only compromises the individual's right to privacy but also undermines the trust that patients place in healthcare providers. This breach can expose patients to various repercussions, including social stigma or discrimination, and can lead to legal consequences for the healthcare provider or facility involved. In contrast, sharing patient information with a direct supervisor or discussing a patient case privately with a colleague, when done within the context of patient care and where all parties are authorized to have access to that information, does not violate confidentiality. Similarly, obtaining verbal consent before discussing treatment with another doctor respects patient autonomy and legal boundaries, reinforcing the importance of confidentiality while collaborating on patient care.