Failure to Remove Hospital Wristbands Compromises Resident Confidentiality
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the confidentiality of personal and medical information for two residents. Both residents were observed wearing hospital-issued wristbands after being admitted to the facility. The wristbands displayed sensitive information, including medical record numbers, admission dates, dates of birth, names, and the name of a medical doctor. Staff interviews confirmed that the responsibility for removing these bands lies with the nursing staff upon admission, but there was no established timeframe for removal, and removal was only performed upon resident request. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that the hospital bands typically contain personal and clinical information and that their continued use after admission could result in the disclosure of confidential information. The facility's own policy, as presented, affirms residents' rights to privacy and confidentiality of personal and medical records. Despite this, the observed practice allowed for the ongoing public display of protected health information, in violation of privacy standards.