Search Privacy Violations, Breaches and Complaints
This database was last updated in December 2015 ago and should only be used as a historical snapshot. More recent data on breaches affecting 500 or more people is available at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Breach Portal.
VA Mid South Healthcare Network (VISN 9)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on June 16, 2011. Also cited in 328 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000063762, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 09 Louisville, KY
Issue:
Patient A came in to receive 2 units of blood. When Patient A returned home, he realized that he had Patient B's armband on. He immediately called the facility to let them know and expressed concern that he may have received the wrong blood. Staff checked and crossed checked all documentation. Patient A received the correct blood for infusion. Patient B's armband included his name, full SSN, and date of birth. Update: 06/28/11:The armband belonged to Patient B who was also supposed to receive blood the same day; however, Patient B did not show up for the appointment and Patient B's armband was placed on Patient A.06/29/11:Patient B will receive a letter of notification.
Outcome:
The MSA who placed the armband on the patient was just temporarily filling in for another employee. Employee was counseled with regard to placing the incorrect armband and making sure the check information before placing on patients. The employee has been removed from this area and placed elsewhere.