Unattended Computer Screen Exposes PHI at Nursing Station
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when protected health information (PHI) for 27 residents, including their names, insurance payor information, and care levels, was left visible on an unattended computer screen at the main nursing station. The screen was positioned so that anyone passing by, including visitors and residents, could view the information. No staff member was present at the station during the observation, and the computer was not locked or turned off. The Director of Nursing confirmed in an interview that PHI should not be left accessible or visible when unattended and acknowledged that the information displayed constituted PHI. The incident was based on direct observation and staff interview, with no mention of corrective or follow-up actions taken at the time of the report.