In this situation, what is the most appropriate action for the LPN to take?

Question

ACTION ONE
Wait until he is alone with the receptionists and then ask if they were aware that a patient was listening to their conversation.
ACTION TWO
Since Will is not the receptionists’ supervisor, Will should keep doing his work because he does not have the authority to say anything.
ACTION THREE
Will should go to the receptionists and quietly point out that there is a patient listening.

Answer 1

ACTION THREE
Will should go to the receptionists and quietly point out that there is a patient listening.
FOR THE PATIENT
The patient’s privacy was preserved to the best of the abilities of the practice, once the mistake was reported. The patient was spared embarrassment, and the patient’s friend kept her word (and her silence) once asked by the office manager.
FOR THE PRACTICE
The practice retained the goodwill of both the patient and the patient’s friend. Additionally, the practice avoided legal and civil penalties for the breach of confidentiality and any negative publicity or loss of business that might have resulted from the
legal issues.
FOR THE EMPLOYEE
The CNA received praise in his employment record for his swift and proper response when witnessing the violation of confidentiality. The receptionists were reprimanded and placed on probation, thus ensuring their compliance with privacy practices for the duration of their employment. There were no legal or civil entanglements for them.