4.1. Explain the meaning of the term "confidentiality".

Course – Level 3 diploma in care (RQF)

Unit 6 – Promote Communication in Care Settings

L.O. 4 – Be able to apply principles and practices relating to confidentiality.

Confidentiality in health and social care in the Level 3 Diploma in Care (RQF) means there is an ethical and legal responsibility to keep private personal and sensitive information communicated by individuals in their care and communication. This means that a service user can share very personal information about their health, personal life, and care needs, and that information must be kept confidential and only shared with those with permission and on a need-to-know basis. Confidentiality creates trust, ensures we respect individuals’ privacy, and enables effective communication between care provider and care recipient.

Fundamentally, confidentiality means protecting individuals' personal information from deliberate or inadvertent exposure. This applies to spoken words, written documents, electronic data, or any other communication. For instance, a nurse must not disclose the details of any patient to anyone who was not expressly authorised to receive that information (even in the case of family or friends, or unrelated staff). Confidentiality is paramount to create an environment conducive to sharing sensitive information that is ultimately necessary for care, without the concern of embarrassment or compromise.

Confidentiality in care and health settings is based on several key principles: first, information should only be shared with the informed consent of the person concerned, unless it is legally required that information be passed on due to such circumstances where the person or another person may be put at serious risk of harm. Second, only share information that is minimised and solely relevant to each individual and their needs on shared decision-making. Such individuals may include a doctor, care managers, or an individual’s guardian. Third, every document containing personal information needs to be securely and safely stored, i.e., in locked cupboards for paperwork records and Word documents with password protection and encrypted files for electronic records to restrict any unauthorised access to personal health information. Fourth, individuals have the right to determine who can access their information and should be advised about how their information is used and shared.

Confidentiality is not only an ethical and moral obligation in professional practice but also a legal obligation under the law to protect personal information. In such instances, the Data Protection Act 2018 or the Human Rights Act 1998 outlines an individual’s right to privacy and security of data. Confidentiality can be breached in care settings, which can lead to loss of trust and emotions for individuals and legal consequences for care providers.

Ultimately, confidentiality in health and social care means protecting personal and sensitive information, respecting individuals' choices about information about them, and not sharing information unless it is necessary and appropriate. If confidentiality is maintained, trust is established, dignity is maintained, and care practitioners can meet the care profession's ethical and legal protection for individuals experiencing unsafe and ineffective support.

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