Which of the following is an example of a HIPAA violation?

Sharing a patient’s private health information without consent is indeed a clear example of a HIPAA violation. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes strict regulations to protect sensitive patient information, ensuring that such data can only be shared with authorized individuals or entities and only when there is appropriate consent. Violations occur when personal health information is disclosed without permission, undermining the trust between patients and healthcare providers and potentially causing harm to the patient's privacy rights.

In contrast, discussing a patient’s case with a family member could potentially violate HIPAA if consent has not been obtained; however, it can also be permissible under certain circumstances if it’s part of a legitimate care process and the patient has allowed for such discussions.

Keeping patient information secure in the workplace and signing a confidentiality agreement are actions that support HIPAA compliance rather than violate it. Secure storage and handling of health information and formal agreements reinforcing confidentiality demonstrate adherence to the regulations intended to protect patients’ privacy.