Ethical & Legal Compliance Flashcards

A client's adult son calls asking for details about his mother's recent diagnosis. The client has not listed him as an authorized contact. What should the care worker do?

Answer: Politely decline and refer him to the client or supervisor

Under HIPAA, protected health information may only be shared with people the client has authorized.

Which federal law gives patients the right to access and request copies of their own health records?

Answer: HIPAA Privacy Rule

The HIPAA Privacy Rule grants individuals the right to access and obtain copies of their protected health information.

A care worker notices a coworker taking pain pills from a client's medication supply. What is the most appropriate action?

Answer: Report it to the supervisor immediately

Drug diversion is misappropriation of client property and must be reported promptly through the chain of command.

Restraining a client without a physician's order or valid emergency justification is considered:

Answer: False imprisonment

Unlawfully restricting a person's freedom of movement, including unauthorized restraints, constitutes false imprisonment.

A client with full decision-making capacity refuses a scheduled bath. What should the care worker do first?

Answer: Respect the refusal, ask why, and report it per policy

Competent clients have the right to refuse care; the worker should explore the reason, offer alternatives, and document and report.

Which of the following is an example of a boundary violation?

Answer: Lending a client money for groceries

Financial dealings with clients blur professional boundaries and can lead to exploitation claims.

In most U.S. states, care workers who suspect elder abuse are considered:

Answer: Mandated reporters required to report suspicions

Most states designate caregivers as mandated reporters who must report reasonable suspicion of abuse, without needing proof.