ch. 19

reporting

takes place when two or more people communicate information about client care, either face to face, audio recording, computer charting, or telephone

dialogue

two-way communication, which is not always the case for reporting

documentation

verifies health care provided and serves as a communication tool among all caregivers in that regard

identifying risks and ensuring future safety for clients

A nurse on a night shift entered an older adult client's room during a scheduled check and discovered the client on the floor beside the bed, the result of falling when trying to ambulate to the washroom. After assessing the client and assisting into the bed, the nurse has completed an incident report. What is the primary purpose of this particular type of documentation?