using names when charting

You have a responsibility to write down what the patient has told you, not what your collegues says the patient said...*confusing*. I mean; to be sure you can stand for what you've been told, go to the patient, talk and write. That should keep you on your safe side..and if the patient does agree, you could tell the family. You have to read what's in the charting not what your collegues says that patient said. Second hand info is never the best. thats my recommendation.

/L.

What if someone charts that they told you something about a patient, but they really didn't. The patient dies,the family sues and they see you were told about what was going on, since it was put in the chart, and it looks like you didn't do anything about it? If you can't tell, one of my biggest fears is being sued!!

Thanks to all for your advice even though it wasn't my question. I really enjoy reading this info and I am glad I joined. I'll be entering nursing 4 in two weeks and myself along with some other students will be asking for some classroom time to really get into correct documentation which I feel we did not receive enough education on that subject. Thanks again! :)