Resident Information Exposed Due to Unlocked Medication Cart Computer
Penalty
Summary
A medication cart was observed left unlocked and unattended in a hallway, with the computer screen on top of the cart displaying a resident's personal and medical information. The cart and exposed screen were visible and accessible to unauthorized individuals passing by. This incident involved a staff member, LVN A, who left the computer screen open and unattended, resulting in the exposure of confidential resident information. Upon returning to the cart, LVN A acknowledged forgetting to lock the computer screen and recognized that leaving it open constituted a HIPAA violation, as it could allow unauthorized access to resident information. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that it was facility policy and expectation for staff to lock computer screens to prevent unauthorized disclosure of resident information, as outlined in the facility's Resident Rights policy.