Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

Which act holds nurses accountable for the care provided to their patients?

1. The Privacy Act

2. The Health Information Privacy Code

3. The Health Practitioner Competency Assurance Act

4. The Human Rights Act

The correct answer is: The Health Practitioner Competency Assurance Act

The Health Practitioner Competency Assurance Act is the correct choice because it specifically addresses the accountability and standards of practice for health practitioners, including nurses. This legislation is designed to ensure that health care providers maintain competence and adhere to professional standards to protect public safety and welfare. It mandates that health professionals demonstrate their ability to practice effectively and continue their education, thereby holding them responsible for the quality of care they deliver to patients. In contrast, the Privacy Act and the Health Information Privacy Code primarily focus on the management of personal health information and confidentiality rather than direct accountability for patient care. The Human Rights Act is oriented towards ensuring individual rights and freedoms but does not specifically regulate the standards or competency of health care practitioners. Thus, while various acts are important in the health care context, the Health Practitioner Competency Assurance Act directly pertains to the accountability of nurses for the care they provide.