In terms of patient confidentiality, what is the best practice for EMS personnel?

The best practice for EMS personnel regarding patient confidentiality is to share information only with authorized personnel. This approach is crucial because it ensures that private and sensitive patient information is handled according to legal regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States.

When EMS personnel share information only with those who are authorized—such as other healthcare providers directly involved in the patient's care—they respect the patient's right to privacy and maintain the integrity of the healthcare system. This practice also reduces the risk of breaches of confidentiality that could lead to legal consequences for both the personnel involved and their organization.

The other options under consideration lack adherence to confidentiality principles. Discussing patient details openly in public compromises privacy and is unethical. Recording all patient data in a public report does not protect sensitive information either. Limiting patient information to on-scene conversation only may seem better than public discussion, but it is still not sufficient, as it does not secure the information from unauthorized personnel who might overhear the conversation or gain access to that information later. Therefore, sharing information only with authorized personnel is the most responsible and ethical choice in preserving patient confidentiality.