1MiMi1

yes, if there's enough information given to identify the patient. that would be the key. I imagine, since no names were mentioned. Seeing this nurse worked all over a vast area with a few nursing agencies, and not in one home care setting, one office or hospital there seems there would not be enough evidence to track whom she was speaking about. That's the information I have gathered thus far. I bet it really depends on a few factors when it is investigated for technicalities. However speaking in a public place is always a bad idea no matter what. Lessen learned for her.

how about discussing the days work with a friend in a restaurant including some description about the patient but using no names.(tho bad idea I know) this is a fairly large town. the nurse works in a many different facilities as she's an agency nurse. violation and how bad?

that's the point. public place. does that make a big difference? either way...bad idea.

scenario: nurse is in restaurant with friend. Nurse tells friend about day at work and briefly tells about her patients condition and what the day was like with this patient. Nurse uses NO name what so ever. Conversation changes to other topics. Someone over heard said nurse describing client. Reports this to the nurses office manager and files written complaint. Nurse does not know who this person is but office manager says it was the clients uncle who said nurse does not know. Question: Is this a hipaa violation and if it is, how severe is it? No names were used in the conversation at all. Any imput anyone?