Which of the following best describes when the nurse can share confidential information about an employee's health with others? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. If needed for workers' compensation documents
b. If a life-threatening emergency occurs
c. If authorized by the employee to specific recipients, such as insurance companies or health care providers
d. If requested by the employer for management purposes
e. In compliance with governmental laws and regulation
f.
In educational programs so others can avoid similar injuries and risks

Answer 1

ANS: A, B, C, E
Occupational health nurses sometimes experience ethical dilemmas because of dual responsibility to both their employer and employees. In dealing with health information, the employee has a right to privacy and should "be protected from unauthorized and inappropriate disclosure of personal information" (AAOHN, 2004, p. 1). Exceptions can, and in some situations must, be made, however. These include: (1) life-threatening emergencies, (2) authorization by the employee to release information to others (e.g., insurance company, health care provider), (3) workers' compensation information, and (4) compliance with government laws and regulations. The nurse is unable to share confidential information about an employee's health with the employer for management purposes or during an educational program.