Shoulder Surfing - Nursing Science

What is Shoulder Surfing?

Shoulder surfing refers to the practice of stealing confidential information by looking over someone's shoulder, typically when they are using electronic devices. In the context of nursing, this can involve unauthorized individuals gaining access to patient data, medications, or other sensitive information.

Why is it a Concern in Nursing?

Nurses handle highly sensitive patient information daily. This includes electronic health records (EHRs), medication lists, and personal details. Unauthorized access to this information can lead to serious privacy breaches, compromise patient safety, and violate HIPAA regulations.

How Can Shoulder Surfing Affect Patient Care?

Shoulder surfing can lead to misuse of confidential information, identity theft, and even medical errors. For instance, if someone observes a nurse entering medication orders, they could potentially alter the orders, leading to incorrect treatment. This compromises patient safety and trust in healthcare providers.

What Are the Signs of Shoulder Surfing?

Common signs include unfamiliar individuals lingering around workstations, people who seem overly interested in what nurses are doing on their screens, and frequent unauthorized access to sensitive areas. Nurses should be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to their supervisors.

Preventive Measures

There are several strategies to mitigate the risks of shoulder surfing:

Screen Privacy Filters: Using privacy filters on monitors can help obscure the screen from side angles, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to view the content.
Workstation Positioning: Positioning workstations in a way that limits visibility from public areas can also minimize the risk.
Access Controls: Implementing strict access control measures ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information.
Awareness Training: Regular training sessions on information security and best practices can help nurses stay vigilant and recognize potential threats.

What Should Nurses Do If They Suspect Shoulder Surfing?

If a nurse suspects shoulder surfing, they should immediately report it to their supervisor or the hospital’s IT security team. They should also take steps to secure the workstation and ensure that sensitive information is not visible to unauthorized individuals.

Legal and Ethical Implications

Violating patient privacy through shoulder surfing can lead to significant legal consequences under HIPAA. It can also damage the ethical standards of nursing practice, as maintaining patient confidentiality is a fundamental responsibility of healthcare providers.

Conclusion

Shoulder surfing is a serious concern in the nursing field, posing risks to patient privacy and safety. By understanding the implications and adopting preventive measures, nurses can protect their patients' confidential information and uphold the integrity of their profession.