Which of the following is a potential consequence of not maintaining confidentiality?

Maintaining confidentiality is a fundamental principle in healthcare, especially for nursing assistants (NAs). Failure to uphold confidentiality can lead to serious repercussions, one of which is legal action against the nursing assistant. When a patient's private information is disclosed without consent, it can violate established laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Legal action might include lawsuits from patients or their families, as well as possible penalties imposed by regulatory bodies.

By safeguarding patient information, nursing assistants not only comply with legal standards but also protect themselves from potential professional repercussions, which may include loss of licensure or employment. This emphasizes the importance of recognizing the vital role that confidentiality plays in maintaining professional integrity and patient trust in healthcare settings.