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       The Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) code, section 5, focuses on prioritising people, which highlights upholding dignity whilst also focusing on respecting people's right to privacy and confidentiality (NMC 2018a).

       Privacy falls under confidentiality in law, which focuses on handling data appropriately and securely, and only sharing it for specific reasons (Data Protection Act 2018).

       Under law, confidentiality can be waived in order to prevent harm to oneself, by self or others, and to prevent harm to others. Specific laws refer to activities that require referral to authority bodies (Table 8.1).

       Supporting privacy and dignity is also a human right with three specific articles of the UK Humans Rights Act (1998) focusing on these (Table. 8.2).

       Privacy and dignity also refer to maintaining the privacy and dignity of patients, employers, and other employees actions outside of the work environment – this is specifically important when engaging with social media.

       Emergency situations – when saving life is a priority, both privacy and dignity can be forgotten. Closing the curtain or door can be helpful, but as multiple members of the team may be entering and leaving the room, closing the curtain or door of surrounding patients can reduce exposure.

       The unconscious patient is unable to express preferences – this information may be provided by other sources (e.g. family members, patient’s notes) but advocating for the patient is also required in these circumstances.

       Lack of capacity – sharing of information in these situations can be challenging. Avoid assuming that information can be provided and look for a lasting power of attorney form.

       Time pressures – these pressures can result in a lack of privacy when providing sensitive care.

       Time pressures – these pressures can also cause healthcare workers to disregard patient dignity by not considering patients’ preferences. which could be based on cultural, religious or other practices.

       Maintaining privacy requires healthcare professionals to treat the patient as an individual for each individual interaction; not doing so can disregard legal and professional requirements.

       A ‘do not disturb’ clip to use with curtains (Figure 8.1).

       A roller blind for door windows.

       Appropriate documentation security.

       Ensure the procedure is fully explained and informed consent is obtained.

       Check that there will be no interruptions for the duration of the procedure; use ‘do not disturb’ signs.

       Advise members of your team, and the nurse in charge where you will be, as

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