A nurse observes an unknown man in a laboratory coat making copies of a client's medical record. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Discussing clients at the table in the cafeteria [b], disposing of written report sheets into the facility trash receptacle [c], and sharing a personal password with a coworker [e] are all actions that jeopardize client confidentiality. Client information should be kept private and secure at all times. Discussing clients in public places or disposing of client information in an unsecured manner can result in unauthorized access to confidential information. Sharing personal passwords can also compromise the security of client information.

The other options do not jeopardize client confidentiality. Removing client information from fax machines immediately [a] helps to prevent unauthorized access to confidential information. Giving verbal reports at change of shift in a designated conference room [d] is a standard practice that allows for the secure transfer of client information between healthcare providers.

The nurse should intervene when the AP tears a document with client information in half before disposing of it in a waste basket. This is because client information is confidential and should be disposed of properly to protect the client's privacy. Tearing a document in half is not sufficient to ensure that the information is protected.
Option A is incorrect because logging off the computer after entering a client's intake and output totals is an appropriate action.
Option C is incorrect because denying a request by another AP to use her password to enter the client's vital signs is an appropriate action to protect the client's information.
Option D is incorrect because removing a clipboard with client information from the room during visiting hours may be necessary to protect the client's privacy.