IndexEnd of HIPAAS Scenario and RecommendationAdvantages and DisadvantagesConclusionIn today's society, the use of smartphones and social media has become second nature. Most people are so quick to switch to their mobile devices and share photos and information about anything via social media because it has become the primary method of communicating with others around the world. The speed at which information is spread via the Internet is rewarding for most people, but some may not realize the negative impacts and consequences that come from using networking platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, inappropriately and without caution. In healthcare environments, information technology plays a critical role in how healthcare providers share, educate and learn about patients and formulate a care plan. For example, photos of patients' wounds are taken and given to a nurse or specialist through computer systems for an expert opinion on the wound and what the treatment plan should be. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay When transferring or sharing patient information with another member of the healthcare team, healthcare providers are required to follow HIPAA rules and regulations to ultimately protect patient privacy and confidentiality. However, the use of smartphones and social media in the workplace has made it difficult for some professionals to keep work information confidential and consequently violate patient privacy and safety. This document will discuss how HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is an integral part of all healthcare facilities, a final scenario and recommendation regarding the nurse who violates a patient's privacy while providing patient care, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using smartphones and social media in the workplace.HIPAAAccording to Edelman and Kudzma (2018), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) ensures that individuals' health information is adequately protected, allowing at the same time the flow of information necessary to provide and promote high-quality care and to protect the health and well-being of the public. In the healthcare industry, nurses are seen as patient advocates. As a result, nurses are expected to care for and protect patients from harm in every way possible: physically, mentally, holistically, and legally. In addition to providing quality bedside care to patients, ensuring patient privacy and confidentiality should also be a top priority for nurses. In busy work environments, such as the emergency room, it is easy for patient information to be left unattended and viewed by others if not handled carefully. In the case of the nurse who took a photo of the famous patient, the actions taken by this nurse were unprofessional and unethical. Not only did the nurse violate the patient's privacy by taking the photo, but she unknowingly left her mobile device unattended, which then gave others the opportunity to access the personal information stored on the phone, thus violating the patient's confidentiality . Information shared without consent is grounds for legal action and repercussions, such as revocation of your nursing or professional license. In any workplace, it is common for employers to educate their employees about the importance of HIPAA and how compliance.
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