How should confidentiality be handled by DSPs?

Confidentiality is a critical aspect of the responsibilities of a Direct Support Professional (DSP). The correct approach involves protecting personal information and sharing it only with individuals who are authorized to receive it. This commitment to confidentiality ensures the privacy of the individuals receiving support, fostering trust and a safe environment. DSPs must adhere to established policies and legal regulations regarding the sharing of personal information, ensuring that sensitive data is only disclosed when necessary and appropriate.

In contrast, sharing information freely among staff members without consideration of relevance or necessity can lead to breaches of confidentiality and trust. Discussing individuals with family members without proper consent compromises their privacy rights, even if it might seem harmless. Using social media to share progress poses significant risks, as it can lead to unauthorized exposure of personal information and violate confidentiality agreements. Therefore, the principle of sharing only with authorized individuals safeguards the rights and dignity of the persons DSPs support.