I was recently fired from my job of 14 years as a medical records clerk after inadvertently accessing the file of a coworker's son. I had been trying to scan a document to my coworker's chart, and in the process I clicked on her son's chart. I immediately realized my mistake, closed the file and that was that. No harm was done and I wasn't in the chart for more than 10 seconds. According to my company (prior to this incident I have never had any disciplinary issues), I intentionally accessed the son's chart. After a 2 month "investigation" (during which I heard NOTHING from anyone to indicate that I might be fired), they let me go. I understand the privacy policy, but this was an honest mistake...I still can't believe that one honest mistake in 14 years is enough to get someone fired. I have been going through a roller coaster of emotions since I was fired and I am currently disputing my termination.