If a resident asks for a copy of his medical record, the appropriate action is to

If a resident asks for a copy of his medical record, the appropriate action is to

• A. Tell the resident he has no right to his records
• B. Make copies of the record for the resident
• C. Report the request to the nurse
• D. Read the medical record aloud to the resident

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that accessing and releasing a resident’s medical records must be handled by authorized staff with proper privacy safeguards. When a resident asks for a copy, you should not copy or disclose records yourself. Instead, report the request to the nurse so it can be processed through the proper channels. The nurse will verify the resident’s identity and eligibility, determine what information can be released under facility policy and privacy laws, and arrange for copies or a supervised review as appropriate. This protects the resident’s confidential information and ensures proper handling by qualified personnel. If the resident needs help understanding the records, the nurse can provide guidance or a summary within the allowed procedures.

The main idea is that accessing and releasing a resident’s medical records must be handled by authorized staff with proper privacy safeguards. When a resident asks for a copy, you should not copy or disclose records yourself. Instead, report the request to the nurse so it can be processed through the proper channels. The nurse will verify the resident’s identity and eligibility, determine what information can be released under facility policy and privacy laws, and arrange for copies or a supervised review as appropriate. This protects the resident’s confidential information and ensures proper handling by qualified personnel. If the resident needs help understanding the records, the nurse can provide guidance or a summary within the allowed procedures.