Which example best illustrates appropriate use of patient information under confidentiality?

• A. Sharing a patient's treatment plan with a nurse directly involved in care.
• B. Sharing with a coworker not involved in care via a public chat.
• C. Posting patient information on social media.
• D. Providing patient data to a marketing team.

Answer: (A)

Sharing patient information is appropriate only with those who have a legitimate need to know in order to deliver care. A nurse who is directly involved in the patient’s treatment needs access to the treatment plan to coordinate interventions, monitor progress, and ensure safe, effective care. This supports confidentiality by keeping information within the care team and sharing it through proper, secure channels.

Other scenarios breach privacy. Giving details to a coworker not involved in care creates an unnecessary exposure, especially if done through a public chat. Posting patient information on social media makes sensitive data public, and providing data to a marketing team uses patient information for nonclinical purposes without justification.