What is the most appropriate action for a nurse to maintain patient confidentiality when faxing information to another facility?

Maintaining patient confidentiality when faxing information is crucial for protecting sensitive health information. One of the most immediate and effective actions a nurse can take to ensure confidentiality is to confirm that the fax number is correct before sending any documents. This step helps to prevent inadvertent disclosures of patient information to unintended recipients, which could occur if the fax is sent to the wrong facility or individual. By taking the time to verify the recipient's fax number, the nurse minimizes the risk of a confidentiality breach and ensures that the patient’s private information is shared only with authorized personnel.

While using encryption, utilizing cover sheets, and limiting the content of messages can enhance security and confidentiality, the fundamental step of confirming the correct fax number directly addresses the potential for misdirected communication, making it a critical component of patient information management in this context.