Do you lock (i.e.: sign) your electronic chart notes each day before walking out the door?

Forgetting (or failure) to digitally sign chart notes can (and has) resulted in unfavorable outcomes for dentists involved in malpractice cases.

An unsigned (or “unlocked”) clinical note is an open-door for plaintiff arguments.

I cannot over stress the importance of signing, dating and “locking” your chart notes each day.

Digital chart notes are legal documents that can be used as evidence in legal proceedings. By signing digital notes, dentists are attesting to the authenticity and accuracy of the notes, which can be important in the event of a dispute or legal challenge.