I am a RN in a 25 bed hospital and if a family memebr calls, we are allowed to give out information (pretty much anything they ask) as long as the family member gives the ok. My dad is in a hospital out of state and I called and talked to him. He doesnt know any of his lab work, what meds he is on, etc. So I got his nurse on the phone and said "I'm so and so's daughter and I wanted to know how he is doing". She says "He is stable. If you want I can send you down to his room". I say "I just talked to him. I am a nurse and wanted to know a little bit about how he is doing". She says "I cant give out any information on him unless he signs a release".
I was just curious. He doesnt have any problem signing a release, but in our hospital as long as you can verify the caller is family (they know DOB, Mother's Maiden name, etc) and the pt gives permission, we give out info.
Anyone else?
Jessica