What must be ensured about patient records once input into an electronic system?

Patient records that are stored in an electronic system must be unalterable to maintain their integrity and security. This means that once the information is entered into the system, it cannot be changed or deleted without leaving a trace. This is crucial in healthcare settings to protect against fraud, ensure compliance with legal standards, and maintain clear, accurate medical documentation. Regulatory bodies require that patient health records are secure and reliable; having unalterable records supports these requirements, especially in the case of audits or legal inquiries.

The ability to edit patient records might compromise the reliability and authenticity of the information contained within them, which is why this option is not suitable. Regular printing of records, while sometimes beneficial for backup purposes, is not a requirement of electronic systems. Lastly, while sharing records with authorized personnel is necessary for collaborative care and treatment, this responsibility must be balanced with privacy laws and confidentiality, making it less pertinent compared to the necessity of having unalterable records.