In a break-the-glass access scenario, what actions are required?

In a break-the-glass access scenario, what actions are required?

• A. Access PHI without authorization in urgent scenario; documented and reviewed.
• B. Only log the access if patient agrees.
• C. Access always allowed.
• D. No documentation required.

Answer: (A)

In break-the-glass situations, you may access PHI without the normal authorization, but only when there’s an urgent need to protect patient care. The essential steps are to record the justification for the access and the specifics of what was accessed, and to have the event reviewed afterward by a supervisor or privacy officer. This creates an auditable trail, ensures the access was truly necessary, and supports accountability and ongoing oversight. Relying on patient agreement isn’t sufficient, there isn’t blanket permission in emergencies, and skipping documentation would remove the crucial record-keeping that protects both patients and practitioners.

In break-the-glass situations, you may access PHI without the normal authorization, but only when there’s an urgent need to protect patient care. The essential steps are to record the justification for the access and the specifics of what was accessed, and to have the event reviewed afterward by a supervisor or privacy officer. This creates an auditable trail, ensures the access was truly necessary, and supports accountability and ongoing oversight. Relying on patient agreement isn’t sufficient, there isn’t blanket permission in emergencies, and skipping documentation would remove the crucial record-keeping that protects both patients and practitioners.