CCS Professional Ethics & Communication 3

Question 1

A patient's adult child insists on receiving their parent's cardiac test results without the patient's explicit permission. The CCS professional should:

Accepted Answer

Release the results only if the parent has provided written authorization or holds an appropriate legal directive

Answer

HIPAA requires written patient authorization before disclosing protected health information to family members unless a legal directive is in place.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of maintaining professional boundaries in the patient-specialist relationship?

Accepted Answer

To protect patient safety, dignity, and the integrity of the therapeutic relationship

Answer

Professional boundaries safeguard the therapeutic relationship, uphold patient dignity, and prevent exploitation or harm.

Question 3

A cardiovascular specialist overhears two colleagues discussing a patient's diagnosis by name in a crowded hospital elevator. The best response is to:

Accepted Answer

Remind colleagues that patient information should not be discussed in public spaces

Answer

Politely reminding colleagues to protect patient confidentiality in public areas is the appropriate first step aligned with HIPAA obligations.

Question 4

In the context of cardiovascular care, the principle of justice most directly requires that:

Accepted Answer

Care is distributed fairly and without discrimination based on age, race, or ability to pay

Answer

Justice in healthcare ethics requires equitable distribution of care and resources without discriminatory barriers.

Question 5

When a patient asks a CCS professional for their personal opinion on a proposed surgical procedure, the most ethical response is to:

Accepted Answer

Share objective information about risks and benefits and encourage discussion with the cardiologist

Answer

Providing objective, evidence-based information while directing the patient to the responsible physician supports informed decision-making without overstepping scope.

(CCS) Certified Cardiovascular Specialist Practice Test

(CCS) Certified Cardiovascular Specialist Practice Test

CCS Professional Ethics & Communication 3