The nurse on an addictive disorders unit receives a phone call inquiring about the status of a client. The caller is not on the client's allowed contact list. Which of the following is the appropriate response by the nurse to the caller?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The protection and privacy of personal health information is regulated by the federal government through the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996. Protected health information is any individually identifiable health information in oral, written, or electronic form. Mental health and substance abuse records have additional special protection under the privacy rules. Requesting placement on the contact list or getting the client verifies the client's presence to the caller. Denying the client's presence affirms the client's existence whether present not, which violates client privacy and confidentiality.

The Nurse on an Addictive Disorders Unit Receives a Phone