Which of the following outcomes best reflects accurate understanding of patient confidentiality in nursing practice?

• A. Respecting patient privacy and not sharing information without consent
• B. Disclosing non-sensitive information to coworkers
• C. Discussing patient details with family without consent
• D. Posting patient information on a public board

Answer: (A)

Protecting patient confidentiality means safeguarding private health information and sharing it only with those who need to know and with the patient's consent. This principle builds trust and is required by ethical standards and law. The best choice captures this by stating to respect patient privacy and not share information without consent. In practice, information is shared within the healthcare team on a need-to-know basis and only with patient permission if sharing beyond the immediate care team. Discussing patient details with family without permission and posting patient information publicly are breaches of confidentiality and can have serious consequences.