Which of the following represents a breach of ethical standards in healthcare?

Sharing patient information with unauthorized individuals represents a significant breach of ethical standards in healthcare due to the principles of confidentiality and patient privacy. Healthcare professionals are entrusted with sensitive personal and medical information, and it is their responsibility to protect this information from disclosure to anyone who does not have permission to access it. This breach violates not only ethical standards but also legal regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), which are designed to safeguard patient privacy.

In contrast, providing appropriate patient care, obtaining informed consent prior to treatment, and maintaining professional boundaries with patients are all practices that align with ethical standards. These actions demonstrate a commitment to patient welfare, autonomy, and professionalism in the healthcare setting.