What should not be done to an entry in a resident's medical record?

Changing an entry in a resident's medical record to make the initial entry illegible is inappropriate because it compromises the integrity and accuracy of the medical documentation. Medical records serve as a crucial legal document and a source of information for patient care; therefore, clarity and completeness are paramount. When records are altered in such a way that the original information becomes unrecognizable, it can lead to misunderstandings in a patient's treatment, create legal implications, and hinder communication among healthcare providers.

Maintaining the original entry is vital, as it respects the chronological and factual history of the resident's health status and care. In situations where corrections or updates are necessary, proper protocol involves adding supplementary notes that clarify or explain the changes, rather than obscuring the initial entry. This practice ensures transparency and accountability in healthcare documentation.