Which action best ensures the security of physical and electronic patient records?

• A. Leaving records unattended
• B. Copying records to USB
• C. Printing on a public printer
• D. Refiling physical records and locking or logging out of computer screens

Answer: (D)

Maintaining security for both physical and electronic patient records means limiting access to authorized people and keeping sensitive information out of sight when not in use. Refiling physical records after use puts them back in secure, organized storage, reducing the chance someone else can view or misplace them. At the same time, locking your computer screen or logging out when you step away prevents others from seeing or tampering with electronic records. This dual approach protects confidentiality in both formats and supports accountability and proper record-keeping.

Leaving records unattended, copying records to a USB drive, or printing on a public printer all introduce clear risks of exposure or loss—records can be seen, copied, or carried away by people who should not access them.