Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The duty of a nurse in terms of patient confidentiality is primarily to protect information as mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This federal law establishes comprehensive regulations that safeguard patient health information from unauthorized disclosure. A nurse is responsible for ensuring that any health information is kept private and is only shared in appropriate circumstances, such as when there is a need to coordinate care or in other situations that align with HIPAA guidelines.

This responsibility encompasses maintaining strict confidentiality not just in documentation, but also in communication with colleagues, ensuring that any conversations regarding patient care occur discreetly and in areas that are not accessible to unauthorized persons. By adhering to HIPAA regulations, nurses promote trust in the healthcare system and protect patients' rights to privacy and confidentiality regarding their health information.

The other choices do not align with this fundamental duty of nurses. Sharing information with family should only occur with the patient’s consent or in emergencies. Using patient information for educational purposes must also be done with caution, ensuring anonymity and confidentiality unless explicit permission has been obtained. Reporting all information to hospital administration could violate privacy laws unless there is a specific legal or ethical obligation to do so. Therefore, the correct answer reflects a nurse's crucial role in upholding confidentiality according to established