What statement about the maintenance of confidentiality is true?

The statement that confidentiality can be breached when necessary for legitimate professional need is correct due to the context of healthcare practice. While confidentiality is a fundamental principle in nursing and healthcare, there are specific circumstances where sharing patient information is required. For example, this might include cases where there is a risk of harm to the patient or others, or when mandated by law. Such breaches are often justified in the interest of patient safety, public health, or in compliance with statutory reporting obligations, such as notifying authorities about communicable diseases or suspected abuse.

Understanding the balance between maintaining confidentiality and fulfilling professional responsibilities is crucial. Nurses must exercise judgment and adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations, such as HIPAA in the United States, which outlines scenarios where information sharing is permissible.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the complexities of confidentiality. While it is ideal that confidentiality should never be breached, there are exceptions. The idea that electronic technology makes it easier to maintain confidentiality overlooks the risks associated with data breaches and cybersecurity concerns. Additionally, confidentiality is not solely the duty of medical records staff; it is a shared responsibility among all healthcare professionals.