RN-BSN clinicals in OR

[dcox1000]

I'm completing clinicals in the operating room and I'm having an issure regarding privacy. It may even be a HIPPA violation. Patients are placed in a pre-op "room" actually it is a large room divided by curtains. Patients and family members are able to hear everything going on around them. So when the intraoperative nurse and anesthesiologist confirm the patients dx, procedure and past medical hx with a patient there is nothing to prevent other patients and family members from hearing possible sensitive medical information.

[Jolie, BSN]

It is my understanding that this does not constitute a HIPAA violation.

You must take every reasonable precaution to protect private patient information, within the limitations of the setting in which you are practicing. HIPAA acknowledges that some information may be overheard in some settings and allows for this, such as semi-private rooms and ward settings.

I believe that as long as you pull curtains, speak in a reasonable voice, keep charts out of sight of others, etc, you are OK.