How long must a nursing facility retain medical records for each patient after discharge?

A nursing facility must retain medical records for each patient after discharge for a period of six years as per Arizona regulations. This requirement serves several important purposes, including providing a comprehensive history of patient care for future reference, facilitating continuity of care, and ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations related to medical record-keeping. Retaining records for six years also allows for the resolution of potential disputes that may arise related to patient treatment and care.

The need to keep these records for an extended period reinforces the importance of thorough documentation in healthcare settings, which is vital for both clinical and legal reasons. Proper record management helps protect the rights and interests of both the facility and the patients it serves, establishing a clear timeline of medical interventions and decisions made during their stay.