Which of the following ethical issues is often a concern to a faith co

Which of the following ethical issues is often a concern to a faith community nurse (FCN)?

a. The client’s right to confidentiality if a client repents and confesses sin to the nurse
b. Following the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements
c. The nurse’s legal responsibility to the faith community leader
d. Setting up appropriate medical records of care given in case of a later legal suit

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: A
Confidentiality issues have the potential to be problematic in a church community. Church members can ask how someone is doing. Another church member would respond with whatever they have heard. The FCN cannot respond in an equally open way but must maintain confidentiality. In the role of health minister, the parish nurse may receive private and sensitive information. Congregation members should not relate information in the form of confession or repentance; however, the connection with the church ministry team may put the nurse in a position to hear this type of sensitive information. The nurse must protect the client’s right to confidentiality. The nurse should share confidential information with other church ministry leaders (or prayer groups) only when given permission by the client. FCN programs within faith communities generally are not required to follow HIPAA guidelines related to medical records and confidentiality because churches are not in the category of identified health care providers.