What is a CNA's responsibility regarding patient privacy?

A certified nursing assistant's primary responsibility regarding patient privacy is to protect patient information and maintain confidentiality. This means that CNA professionals are entrusted with sensitive health information and must ensure that it is kept private and secure. Maintaining confidentiality is fundamental in building trust between patients and healthcare providers.

CNA practice emphasizes the importance of adhering to laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which governs the protection of patients' personal health information. Under this regulation, any unauthorized disclosure of patient information can result in serious legal repercussions and breaches of professional ethics.

In contrast, disclosing patient information when asked could violate confidentiality agreements and legal mandates; keeping patient records in a public area contradicts the principle of privacy and security; and sharing patient information on social media is a clear breach of confidentiality and can jeopardize patient trust and safety. Hence, protecting patient information is not only a legal requirement but also a cornerstone of ethical healthcare practice.