What is the appropriate action when a co-worker copies a patient's medical record unlawfully?

The most appropriate action in the case of a co-worker unlawfully copying a patient's medical record is to notify the nurse manager. This action is vital for several reasons.

First and foremost, unauthorized access or sharing of patient information breaches confidentiality and violates laws surrounding patient privacy, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). By reporting the incident to the nurse manager, you ensure that the situation is addressed following proper protocols and that the integrity of the patient’s information is safeguarded.

Additionally, notifying the nurse manager allows for a formal investigation into the incident, which is crucial in maintaining ethical standards within the health care facility. It helps to ensure accountability and prevent similar actions in the future, ultimately protecting both the patients and the healthcare organization.

Taking no action, discussing it informally with colleagues, or joining in on the unethical behavior can lead to further misconduct and undermines the professional standards expected in a healthcare environment. Therefore, reporting the issue to management is the responsible and effective way to address the situation.