What is required of nurses in South Carolina regarding patient confidentiality?

Nurses in South Carolina, like those in other states, are required to maintain patient confidentiality as a fundamental aspect of their professional duties. This obligation is rooted in ethical standards and legal regulations, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protect patient privacy and ensure that sensitive information is not disclosed without proper consent. Maintaining confidentiality builds trust between patients and healthcare providers, facilitating open communication and effective care.

The other options do not reflect the legal and ethical standards that govern nursing practice. Disclosing patient information to a patient's family, for example, typically requires patient consent unless there are extenuating circumstances directly involving the patient's care. Making all patient information public contradicts the principles of confidentiality and privacy that nurses are sworn to uphold. Additionally, sharing any information openly with coworkers is not permissible unless it is relevant to patient care and in accordance with privacy policies, highlighting the importance of adhering to specific guidelines regarding access and sharing of patient data within the healthcare setting.