Mellisa applied a figure eight elastic bandage to the hand and wrist of the pati
ID: 122457 • Letter: M
Question
Mellisa applied a figure eight elastic bandage to the hand and wrist of the patient who came to the office for suturing.she immediately sent the patient home after applying the bandage.she did not document the procedure in the patients medical record at that time because the office was quite busy.Discuss all of your concerns regarding this situation.In what ways were safe patient practices ignored?what would be the worst-case scenario for the out come of this situation?how can the potentially serious situation be collected after that fact.
Explanation / Answer
In the medical records patient's history, clinical findings, diagnostic test results, preoperative care, operation notes, post operative care, and daily notes of a patient's progress and medications are clearly included. So the medical records can a vital role in patient management. It is very important for the treating doctor to properly document the management of a patient under his care. Medical records are the only way for the doctor to prove that the treatment was carried out properly. The legal system relies mainly on documentary evidence in a situation where medical negligence is alleged by the patient or the relatives.
The insurance companies also require proper record keeping proving the patient's demand for medical expenses. Improper record keeping can result in declining medical claims. It is wise to remember that “Poor records mean poor defense, no records mean no defense”. So it can affect the hospital as well as doctor reputation and in certain conditions it is legally punishable.