Confidentiality

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Hi guys, I'm a 1st yr nursing student, I'm wondering, is the rule of thumb never to discuss pts over the phone except to colleagues involved in the pt's care? Was just thinking about the Kate Middleton prank call nurse suicide tragedy, & would like to be 100% clear on the rules

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Never discuss patients other than those you can verify have a need to know--primary nurse, medical team, oncoming nurse. Never release information over the phone if you cannot verify with absolute certainty who is calling. In the case of a high profile patient or celebrity, defer all calls to management or public relations.

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

DO not say anything to any one under any circumstances. Follow facility guidelines/policy at all times.

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.
In the case of a high profile patient or celebrity, defer all calls to management or public relations.

This. ^^^ Our PR staff typically will write a note on the snapshot screen in Epic reminding us to defer all calls to them, or "May state 'in critical condition.'" We admit quite a lot of patients who have made the news, the occasional mass casualty situation, etc. It definitely adds another dimension to confidentiality!

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Specializes in Cardiac, ER, Pediatrics, Corrections.

Better to be safe than sorry. If you have to question what you are doing/saying/ or disclosing..better not do it.

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