According to confidentiality standards, which of the following actions should be taken when sending client health information?

The correct action, which involves encrypting client health information when sending emails, aligns with confidentiality standards and best practices for protecting sensitive health information. Encryption acts as a security measure that transforms data into a format that cannot be easily understood without the proper decryption key. This ensures that even if the email is intercepted, unauthorized individuals will not be able to access or comprehend the information contained within it.

Confidentiality standards are critical in healthcare to safeguard patient privacy and comply with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Encrypting emails is one of the most effective methods to protect patient information while communicating electronically, as it significantly reduces the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Other methods mentioned, such as sharing information over the phone, using standard postal service, or sending texts, can expose sensitive information to various security risks. Phone conversations can be overheard, traditional mail can be intercepted or lost, and text messages generally lack the necessary security protocols to protect private health information. Therefore, encryption is the optimal choice in maintaining confidentiality and ensuring compliance with privacy standards.