Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

Which of the following is a key principle related to legal issues in nursing?

1. Patient entertainment

2. Confidentiality and privacy

3. Marketing of healthcare services

4. Shared decision making without consent

The correct answer is: Confidentiality and privacy

Confidentiality and privacy are foundational principles in the field of nursing, as they directly relate to the ethical and legal obligations that healthcare professionals have toward their patients. This principle is essential for building trust in the nurse-patient relationship. Maintaining confidentiality means that nurses must safeguard sensitive patient information and disclose it only with the patient’s consent or when legally required. This practice is governed by laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States, which sets strict standards for the protection of personal health information. Ensuring patients' privacy not only fulfills legal obligations but also promotes patient dignity and autonomy. In contrast, while patient entertainment, marketing healthcare services, and shared decision-making are important aspects of healthcare, they do not have the same weight in terms of legal principles specifically related to patient rights and protections. For instance, shared decision-making is a vital aspect of patient care but must occur within the framework of informed consent, which ensures that the patient is fully aware and agrees to the procedures and treatments planned. Hence, confidentiality and privacy take precedence as a legal issue relating specifically to nursing practices.