How should navigators handle sensitive patient information?

Navigators should handle sensitive patient information according to HIPAA guidelines because these regulations are designed to protect the privacy and security of patients' health information. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) establishes standards for the safeguarding of patient data, including who can access it, how it should be shared, and measures for ensuring its security.

By adhering to HIPAA guidelines, navigators will ensure that patient information is only disclosed to authorized individuals, maintained with confidentiality, and stored securely. This approach not only protects the rights and privacy of patients but also helps to maintain trust in the healthcare system.

The other options present actions that are not consistent with best practices for handling sensitive information. Sharing freely with colleagues undermines confidentiality, documenting without discretion fails to secure that information properly, and storing data in unapproved locations increases the risk of unauthorized access and breaches. Thus, following HIPAA guidelines is crucial for compliance and ethical patient care.