Unattended Computer with Resident Information Visible at Nurse's Station
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when an LVN left a facility computer open and unattended at the nurse's station, with residents' personal medical information visible to anyone passing by. The observation took place while the LVN was approximately 35 feet away, passing medication, leaving the computer screen displaying sensitive information in an open area accessible to residents, visitors, and guests. During interviews, the LVN stated she believed it was acceptable to leave the computer unlocked with resident information displayed, as that was how she was trained, though she could not recall who provided this instruction. Further interviews with the ADON, DON, and ADM confirmed that the responsibility for securing resident information on computers lies with the staff member using the device. Each acknowledged that leaving a computer unattended with resident information visible could result in unauthorized access. Review of the facility's HIPAA Privacy Notice Acknowledgment indicated that employees are required to protect personal health information and that violations could result in termination and reporting to the Employee Misconduct Registry.