(a) In order to preserve the integrity of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission's (HHSC's) inspection and investigation process, a hospital:(1) may not record, listen to, or eavesdrop on any HHSC interview with hospital staff or patients that the hospital staff knows HHSC intends to keep confidential as evidenced by HHSC taking reasonable measures to prevent from being overheard; or(2) may not record, listen to, or eavesdrop on any HHSC internal discussions outside the presence of hospital staff when HHSC has requested a private room or office or distanced themselves from hospital staff unless the hospital first informs HHSC and the hospital obtains HHSC's written approval before beginning to record or listen to the discussion.(b) A hospital shall inform HHSC when security cameras or other existing recording devices in the hospital are in operation during any internal discussion by or among HHSC staff.(c) When HHSC by words or actions permits hospital staff to be present, an interview or conversation for which hospital staff are present does not constitute a violation of this rule.(d) This section does not prohibit an individual from recording an HHSC interview with the individual.