Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

In the event of a security breach, which guideline is least likely to be violated?

1. All sensitive data must be encrypted

2. All devices containing sensitive data must have access control measures such as password protection

3. Network security measures must be in place and access restricted to hospital computers

4. Physical security measures must be in place such as locking laptops and rooms

The correct answer is: Network security measures must be in place and access restricted to hospital computers

The rationale for the choice being considered as the least likely to be violated during a security breach centers on the nature of network security measures and their implementation. In healthcare organizations, network security protocols are generally robust and encompass multiple layers of protection to safeguard sensitive data. This includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls designed to monitor and restrict unauthorized access. In the context of a breach, while it is true that breaches can occur due to various vulnerabilities, the specific measures associated with network security (such as restricting access to hospital computers) are typically well-established and prioritized. Many organizations invest heavily in ensuring that network security protocols are comprehensive and regularly updated to address emerging threats, making violations of these measures less likely compared to other areas. On the other hand, other guidelines mentioned, such as the necessity for all sensitive data to be encrypted or for devices to have adequate access control, can often be bypassed in various circumstances. For instance, physical access to devices can sometimes lead to data breaches if encryption isn't implemented effectively. Similarly, devices may be inadequately secured, leading to possible violations of access control measures. Consequently, while all security measures are critical, network security standards are frequently more rigorously enforced and integrated into healthcare workflows, making them the least