Addendum
Definition
A separate, dated, and signed entry added to an existing record to correct an error or supply omitted information. It preserves the original entry intact while making the correction transparent.
- Purpose
- Correct or supplement an existing record
- Form
- Separate, dated, signed entry
- Original record
- Preserved intact
- Field
- Forensic nursing documentation
Common questions
Why must an addendum be a separate entry rather than an edit to the original text?+
Altering the original entry directly would obscure what was actually recorded at the time and could raise questions about tampering, while a separate dated and signed addendum keeps the original visible and documents exactly what was changed and when.
Can an addendum be added months after the original record was created?+
Yes, there is no fixed time limit, but the longer the gap the more the addendum should explain why the correction or addition is being made so late, since delay itself can invite scrutiny in court.
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