Patient RightsQuestion 2 of 200

A resident's adult son calls the facility asking what medications his mother is taking. The CNA should:

a.Refer the caller to the charge nurse without confirming or denying any clinical information
b.Give him the names of the medications but ask him not to share them with anyone outside the family
c.Invite him to the unit and show him his mother's medication record
d.Read the full medication list aloud because he is an immediate family member

Explanation

HIPAA Privacy Rule (45 CFR §164.502) and 42 CFR §483.10(g) protect resident health information. Family status alone does not authorize disclosure; only individuals designated by the resident or holding valid authority (POA for healthcare, conservator) may receive PHI, and disclosure must be made by appropriate licensed staff. The CNA should not confirm or deny information and must route the request to the nurse, who will verify authorization before any release. Options b, c, and d would each be unauthorized disclosures.

Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.10(g); HIPAA 45 CFR §164.502

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