Which of the following are therapeutic communication techniques? (Select all that apply.)

Introduction:

Healthcare information privacy is governed by federal data protection regulations that mandate strict security standards for all electronic and verbal health records. Any unauthorized disclosure or improper access to identifiable health information constitutes a severe security breach that undermines patient confidentiality and violates foundational federal legal requirements.

A. Discussing patient information in a public area is a violation of privacy mandates because it permits unauthorized individuals to overhear protected health information. Confidential discussions must only occur in secure, private settings to prevent incidental disclosure and ensure that sensitive medical details remain accessible only to authorized healthcare personnel.

B. Sharing login credentials with a coworker is a prohibited security breach that undermines the audit trail required for tracking electronic health record access. Each user must have a unique, secure identity to ensure accountability; sharing passwords compromises the security of the entire system and prevents proper oversight.

C. Accessing a patient's chart without a clinical need is an unauthorized intrusion into a patient's private medical record. HIPAA strictly restricts access to health information based on the principle of "minimum necessary," meaning only individuals directly involved in the patient's care should review their specific personal health information.

D. Faxing information to a verified number is a standard, compliant way to transmit patient data when using appropriate secure protocols. Provided the recipient is confirmed and the transmission process meets the facility’s security guidelines for handling protected health information, this action is a legitimate and acceptable professional communication.

E. Encrypting patient information on a secure system is a required safety measure under federal law to protect data during storage and transmission. This practice is a fundamental component of maintaining compliance and ensuring that sensitive health records remain protected from unauthorized interception or digital cyber security threats.

Introduction:

Safety assessment protocols dictate that nurses must prioritize the immediate implementation of preventative measures when risk factors are identified. Proactive safety interventions are essential to prevent falls, maintain patient stability, and minimize the risk of serious injury in patients with known balance deficits or mobility challenges.

A. Arranging for physical therapy is a valuable long-term plan, but it is not the most immediate action to ensure the patient's safety right now. The nurse must first secure the patient's immediate environment and set up preventative safeguards before waiting for a specialty consultation to occur at a later time.

B. Immediate fall precautions—such as ensuring the call light is within reach, non-slip footwear is worn, and the bed alarm is set—are the essential first steps to prevent an adverse event. These actions provide immediate, direct protection to the patient while the nurse continues to plan further evaluations and support.

C. Ordering a wheelchair is a reactive change that may decrease the patient's functional independence and mobility. The goal is to provide safe support for the patient's current abilities using the assistive device they already have, rather than unilaterally restricting their movement unless a qualified therapist confirms it is medically necessary.

D. While having a nursing assistant nearby can be helpful, the nurse cannot rely on continuous one-on-one observation as a permanent or primary safety intervention. Fall precautions must be established as a standardized environmental and behavioral plan that remains in place regardless of the constant presence of a specific staff member.