In health record documentation, what is required for handwritten entries?

• A. In ink
• B. In pencil
• C. Typed only
• D. Must be signed by patient

Answer: (A)

Handwritten health record entries must be written in permanent ink. This prevents easy erasure or alteration, helping preserve the accuracy and integrity of the record over time. Pencil can be erased, which could allow changes that undermine trust in the documentation. If you need to correct a handwritten line, strike it with a single line and then initial and date the correction. Typed entries are not subject to this ink requirement since they aren’t handwritten.