What term is used for the unauthorized disclosure of patient information?

The term used for the unauthorized disclosure of patient information is "Breach of Confidentiality." This concept is critical in the healthcare field, as it emphasizes the legal and ethical obligation of healthcare professionals to protect patient information. When a breach occurs, it means that sensitive health information about a patient has been shared without their consent, violating privacy laws and trust.

Maintaining confidentiality is paramount for patient care because it assures patients that their personal information will be handled securely. Breaches can occur in various ways, such as sharing information with unauthorized individuals, improper data handling, or failing to secure electronic records. A breach not only has legal ramifications but can also have significant psychological impacts on patients, affecting their willingness to seek care.

Other terms in the options refer to different concepts. Informed consent involves obtaining permission from a patient before conducting treatment, patient privilege relates to the legal rights around confidential communications between patients and their healthcare providers, and data exposure typically relates to security incidents where data may be accessed or released improperly, but not specifically from a patient care context.