In nursing, how is "confidentiality" defined?

Confidentiality in nursing is defined as the ethical obligation to protect patient information from unauthorized access and disclosure. This principle is foundational to the nurse-patient relationship and is rooted in respect for the patient’s privacy and autonomy. Nurses are entrusted with sensitive information about their patients, and it is their responsibility to ensure that this information is safeguarded and only shared with authorized individuals, such as other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care or in situations where the law mandates disclosure.

This commitment to confidentiality fosters trust between patients and healthcare providers, encouraging open communication. Patients are more likely to disclose pertinent health information if they believe their information will be kept confidential. The ethical and legal frameworks governing confidentiality, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) in the United States, further reinforce the importance of protecting patient information. In essence, confidentiality is not merely a practice but a crucial aspect of providing ethical and competent nursing care.