How is a documentation error to be corrected?

The correct approach to correcting a documentation error is to strike through the error with a single line, initial it, and date it. This method allows for transparency and accountability in documentation, which is crucial in medication administration and healthcare in general. By striking through the error, you clearly indicate that it is no longer valid, yet the original information remains visible, preserving the integrity of the record. Initialing and dating provides an audit trail that reflects who made the correction and when, further enhancing the accountability of health records. This practice ensures that anyone reviewing the documentation can understand the correction made, reducing the risk of confusion or misinterpretation in the future.

Other methods, such as erasing the error completely or ignoring it, compromise the integrity of the documentation. Writing a note at the bottom may not provide clarity regarding what was specifically corrected, potentially leading to misunderstandings. Therefore, the established protocol emphasizes the method of striking through, initialing, and dating to ensure clear, accurate, and reliable records.