Which term is used for adding information to a signed record after the fact to correct or clarify?

Which term is used for adding information to a signed record after the fact to correct or clarify?

• A. Late entry
• B. Addendum
• C. Amendment
• D. Erratum

Answer: (A)

When information is added after the chart has been signed, the term used is late entry. It signals that the new detail was recorded after the original documentation and preserves the original note intact, while providing an audit trail of the late addition. A late entry should be dated, timed, and signed, with a brief note on why the information was added late. This approach keeps the record’s chronology clear and maintains accountability. An addendum, while related, is typically a separate follow-up note attached to the original entry for clarification or additional details. An amendment would involve changing the original content to correct it, which is a different process. An erratum refers to correcting printed or published text, not standard clinical charting.

When information is added after the chart has been signed, the term used is late entry. It signals that the new detail was recorded after the original documentation and preserves the original note intact, while providing an audit trail of the late addition. A late entry should be dated, timed, and signed, with a brief note on why the information was added late. This approach keeps the record’s chronology clear and maintains accountability.

An addendum, while related, is typically a separate follow-up note attached to the original entry for clarification or additional details. An amendment would involve changing the original content to correct it, which is a different process. An erratum refers to correcting printed or published text, not standard clinical charting.