Which of the following is an example of unethical documentation in healthcare?

Retrospective documentation of medical records is an example of unethical documentation in healthcare because it involves creating or modifying entries after the fact, potentially to cover up errors, misrepresent the timeline of care, or falsify information about the patient's treatment. This practice undermines the integrity of the medical record, which is supposed to provide an accurate and chronological account of patient care and information. Accurate documentation is crucial not only for the continuity of care but also for legal and compliance purposes. Ethical documentation should always be performed contemporaneously to reflect the true nature of patient interactions and clinical decision-making.

In contrast, front-loading patient visits, while potentially problematic from a billing perspective, does not inherently connote unethical documentation. Maintaining accurate patient histories and creating patient care plans are both essential functions of healthcare documentation and align with ethical standards. These practices ensure that healthcare providers have a clear understanding of a patient’s medical history and tailored care strategies, promoting better patient outcomes.