Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

Which of the following actions helps maintain a patient's privacy during care?

1. Leaving the door slightly ajar

2. Closing the door and drawing curtains

3. Informing the shift supervisor

4. Documenting the care provided

The correct answer is: Closing the door and drawing curtains

Maintaining a patient's privacy during care is an essential aspect of healthcare that protects patient dignity and confidentiality. Closing the door and drawing curtains creates a physical barrier that helps ensure that the patient is not exposed to unwanted attention from other patients, visitors, or staff. This action effectively prevents interruptions and allows for a more personal and comfortable environment for the patient during their care, fostering trust between the patient and healthcare provider. While other options may relate to aspects of care and communication, they do not directly contribute to maintaining privacy in the immediate environment. For instance, leaving the door slightly ajar may compromise privacy, as it allows sounds, sights, and potential breaches of confidentiality from outside the room. Informing the shift supervisor is a necessary duty for other reasons but does not directly affect patient privacy during care. Documenting the care provided is vital for record-keeping and continuity of care but does not serve to enhance privacy during the patient's care experience.