Which scenario would best illustrate a breach in patient confidentiality?

A breach in patient confidentiality occurs when sensitive patient information is disclosed without proper authorization or need-to-know basis. In this scenario, housekeeping being informed about a patient’s presence in the dialysis unit is an example of a breach because the housekeeping staff does not require this information to perform their duties. They are not involved in the patient's care or treatment process, and sharing the patient's location violates the patient's right to privacy.

In contrast, a nurse informing a family member about a patient's treatment can be appropriate if the patient has given consent, thereby maintaining confidentiality within the boundaries of patient preference. Documenting patient information in a private file is actually a standard practice that protects confidentiality by ensuring that sensitive information is kept secure and accessible only to authorized personnel. Lastly, a patient choosing to disclose their diagnosis to a friend is within their rights, as individuals have control over their own health information and can choose to share it.