Medical Ethics and Law Flashcards

Under HIPAA, which of the following is considered Protected Health Information (PHI)?

Answer: A surgery schedule listing patient names and procedures

PHI is individually identifiable health information, so a schedule linking names to procedures qualifies.

The HIPAA 'minimum necessary' standard requires that staff:

Answer: Access only the PHI needed to perform their job duties

Minimum necessary limits use and disclosure of PHI to the least amount needed for the task.

A technologist posts a photo from the OR on social media showing a distinctive tattoo on a patient's arm but no face. This is:

Answer: A potential HIPAA violation because the patient may be identifiable

Any unique identifying feature can make an image PHI, and posting it without authorization breaches confidentiality.

Which federal law requires hospitals receiving Medicare funds to inform adult patients of their right to make advance directives?

Answer: Patient Self-Determination Act

The Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990 requires facilities to inform patients of their rights regarding advance directives.

A patient with a DNR order is scheduled for an elective oculoplastic procedure. Per AORN and ACS guidance, the DNR status should be:

Answer: Reconsidered and discussed with the patient or surrogate before surgery

Professional guidelines call for 'required reconsideration' of DNR orders before anesthesia and surgery rather than automatic suspension.

Which law requires facilities to report to the FDA and manufacturer when a medical device, such as a phaco handpiece, contributes to a patient's serious injury or death?

Answer: Safe Medical Devices Act

The Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990 mandates user-facility reporting of device-related deaths and serious injuries.

Which situation allows treatment under implied consent?

Answer: An unconscious trauma patient with a penetrating globe injury needing emergency care

Implied consent applies in emergencies when a patient cannot consent and delay would threaten life or function.