Tell us about a time when you identified an error in patient records. What steps did you take to correct it?

JUNIOR LEVEL
Tell us about a time when you identified an error in patient records. What steps did you take to correct it?
Sample answer to the question:
During my time as a Medical Records Administrator, I encountered an error in a patient's record. It was a medication dosage discrepancy, where the prescribed dose was incorrect. To resolve this issue, I immediately notified the physician responsible for the prescription and explained the error. We discussed the correct dosage, and I updated the patient's record accordingly. Additionally, I informed the nurse who administered the medication about the mistake and advised her to administer the correct dosage moving forward. To prevent similar errors in the future, I communicated the incident to the rest of the medical records team, emphasizing the importance of double-checking medication orders before updating the patient records.
Here is a more solid answer:
During my tenure as a Medical Records Administrator, I identified an error in a patient's record that involved a discrepancy in the prescribed medication dosage. This situation required me to be attentive to detail and possess strong problem-solving skills. Upon discovering the error, I promptly reached out to the responsible physician to discuss the issue and provide the correct dosage information. I updated the patient's records accordingly to reflect the accurate medication dosage. To ensure continuity of care, I communicated the correction to the nurse responsible for administering the medication. In addition, I conducted an internal review and shared the incident with the medical records team to emphasize the importance of double-checking medication orders. By taking these steps, I not only rectified the error promptly, but also implemented preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer includes specific details about the actions taken to correct the error and highlights the candidate's attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities. It addresses all the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description, but it could be further improved by providing examples of the candidate's proficiency in computer applications and EHR software.
An example of a exceptional answer:
As a meticulous and highly organized Medical Records Administrator, I encountered an error in a patient's record relating to medication dosage. This required me to employ my exceptional attention to detail and proficiency in utilizing computer applications and EHR software. Immediately recognizing the discrepancy, I promptly contacted the attending physician to discuss the error and provide accurate dosage information. Simultaneously, I updated the patient's record, ensuring that it accurately reflected the corrected prescription. Recognizing the importance of effective communication, I immediately informed the nurse responsible for administering the medication about the correction. Realizing that prevention is key, I also initiated an internal review, analyzing the root cause of the error and implementing additional checks and balances to prevent similar incidents from occurring. By addressing this error swiftly and comprehensively, I not only ensured the accuracy of the patient's records but also demonstrated my commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to legal and ethical standards.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer goes beyond the solid answer by providing additional details about the candidate's organizational and time management skills, as well as their commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to legal and ethical standards. It showcases the candidate's ability to utilize computer applications and EHR software effectively. The answer also demonstrates their dedication to continuous improvement by initiating an internal review to prevent similar incidents. The exceptional answer encompasses all the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description and provides a well-rounded response to the question.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Review your experience with medical records management, paying particular attention to occasions when you identified and rectified errors.
  • Familiarize yourself with HIPAA regulations and ensure you have a strong understanding of how to maintain patient confidentiality.
  • Highlight your attention to detail in your previous roles and how it contributed to accurate record-keeping.
  • Practice explaining the steps you would take to correct an error in patient records, emphasizing effective communication and collaboration with healthcare professionals.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Attention to detail
  • Verbal and written communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills

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