What should you do after documenting care performed and observations?

• A. Sign and date the entry.
• B. Notify only the supervisor.
• C. Share verbally only.
• D. Delete the record after a period.

Answer: (A)

Signing and dating the entry is the step that makes the record official and trustworthy. When you put your signature and the date (and usually the time) on what you documented, you identify who performed the care and exactly when it occurred. This creates a permanent, verifiable record that other members of the care team can rely on for continuity, accountability, and legal protection for both the resident and the caregiver.

Providing only a verbal report to a supervisor leaves no written trail for others to consult. Relying on verbal sharing increases the risk of miscommunication or missing details. Deleting or removing the record would erase the care history and is not acceptable.