What negative consequence can result from poor spelling in medical records?

Poor spelling in medical records can lead to potential patient harm, which is a critical concern in healthcare. Accurate documentation is essential for ensuring clear communication among healthcare professionals and for safeguarding patient safety. Spelling errors can result in misunderstandings or misinterpretations of patient conditions, medication names, allergies, or treatment plans. For instance, a misspelled medication could lead to the administration of the wrong drug or dosage, severely impacting patient outcomes. Ensuring correct spelling is vital to avoid risks that can arise from confusion or ambiguity in medical records, ultimately supporting better patient care and safety.