Which of the following healthcare providers can legally have access to all, or part, of a patient’s medical record because they have a “need to know”

Which of the following healthcare providers can legally have access to all, or part, of a patient’s medical record because they have a “need to know”? Select all that apply.
A- Student nurses caring for a particular patient
B- Registered nurses when they are not caring for a particular patient
C- The Vice President for Nursing who is investigating a patient fall
D- Licensed practical nurses caring for a particular patient
E- A quality assurance nurse collecting data for a performance improvement activity

Correct Response: A,C,D,E

Medical records are restricted to only those who have a “need to know”. Student nurses caring for a particular patient have the “need to know” so they can properly care for their patient assignment. The Vice President for Nursing, as an administrator, who is investigating a patient fall also has a “need to know” because they are collecting data and information to prevent future falls. Licensed practical nurses caring for a particular patient have the “need to know” so they can provide care to the patient; and the quality assurance nurse has the “need to know” because they are collecting data for a performance improvement activity. No nurse, including registered nurses, are allowed access to all or part of a patient’s medical record unless they have a “need to know” because they are providing either direct or indirect care to the patient.
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