Who must be restricted from accessing their own medical records in a conflict of interest situation?

In a conflict of interest situation, it is essential to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of medical records. Allowing staff members to access their own medical records could lead to various ethical and legal issues, including potential tampering or personal bias in interpreting their health information. By restricting access for all staff members involved in a conflict of interest, healthcare organizations ensure that patient data is handled appropriately and that the privacy of individuals is protected.

This approach adheres to best practices in health information management, including access control principles which are vital for maintaining trust in the healthcare system and compliance with relevant legislation. In contrast, focusing solely on specific roles like nurses or health information managers might not provide the necessary safeguards needed, as conflicts can arise for any staff member, regardless of their position. Thus, a blanket restriction for all staff in such situations is the most prudent course of action.