Explain how to maintain records that are up to date, complete, accurate and legible

In order to maintain records that are up to date, complete, accurate and legible, you must have to write records clearly so that others can understand the records. It is a best practice to write records in capital letter where possible, if your handwriting is not understandable. No jargon should be used in records. Your opinions, thoughts and judgement must not be served on the records. Records have to be accurate and based on fact. All entry of the records must be signed and dated by the writer for lawful process and authenticity. Without signature and date, records are not valid for any purposes. When updating records, you should keep the older records available to prove where the updated record is originated from. If the records are not up to date, complete, accurate and legible, then it will not serve to its purpose such as communication or legal purposes.

By Foisal Talukdar

Explain how legal requirements and codes of practice inform practice in handling information

All of the legislation and codes of practices carry almost the same messages - which is personal and sensitive information must be processed lawfully and stored securely, so that it does not get lost, damaged, unauthorised access, unauthorised alteration and accidental destruction.

Therefore, health and social care service provider must follow the legislation and codes of practices when handling personal data and sensitive information. Personal data must be collected in guideline with Data protection act and other legislations. It must be processed safely and stored securely. It is a best practice to keep personal data in locked file cabinet. If it is stored in computer then it must be kept password protected to avoid unauthorised access.

Personal data must not be disclosed without the person’s authorisation. Safety of the data must be ensured while exchanging with agreed others such as right person, right email address and right fax number etc. The Data Protection Act gives individuals the right to access information held about them except in certain situations where public safety, security and health are at risk.

By Foisal Talukdar