Which of the following is NOT an example of a reasonable safeguard?

The statement about sharing patient information openly is indeed not an example of a reasonable safeguard. Reasonable safeguards are measures taken to protect the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI) as mandated by HIPAA. Sharing patient information openly fundamentally undermines these protections by exposing sensitive data to unauthorized access. Such a practice would violate confidentiality principles and could lead to serious breaches of privacy and legal consequences under HIPAA regulations.

In contrast, the other options represent effective strategies for safeguarding patient information. Speaking quietly in public areas helps to minimize the risk of unauthorized individuals overhearing sensitive conversations. Locking file cabinets secures physical documents from unauthorized access, and using passwords and screensavers prevents unauthorized electronic access to PHI. Each of these actions constitutes a reasonable effort to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of patient information, in alignment with HIPAA's requirements for the protection of health information.