Which of the following is a safe practice for securing PHI?

Securing PHI (Protected Health Information) in a locked filing cabinet is a best practice for safeguarding sensitive data. This action helps ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the information, thus minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or breaches. A locked filing cabinet provides a physical barrier against theft or inadvertent viewing, which is crucial in maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of patient information.

In contrast, leaving PHI on a desk overnight or storing it in an easily accessible place increases the likelihood of unauthorized access, making it unsafe. Taking PHI home for personal review can also lead to exposure risks, particularly if proper measures for security are not in place outside the professional environment. Safeguarding PHI is mandatory for compliance with regulations like HIPAA, and using a locked filing cabinet represents adherence to these important standards.