Don't make the mistake of discarding consent forms once it is apparent the animal survived the procedure. Complications and complaints often arise months later. Phone conversations between veterinarians, technicians, and clients are commonplace in most practice situations. These conversations are just as important as those that occur in the exam room and should be summarized in the medical record. If an animal is co-owned, it may be helpful to note the specific party involved in the conversation, as clients don't always communicate effectively with each other.
Consumers often submit extensive documentation to support their complaint against a veterinarian.
It is not unusual for the VMB to receive sworn witness testimony, itemized receipts, before and after photographs, transcripts of phone conversations and office visits, pill vials, foreign objects, and copies of medical records. A veterinarian's records must be clear and complete in order to refute the allegations of a prepared complainant. The conscientious veterinarian who wants his or her records to accurately reflect treatments, procedures, and conversations shouldn't need to spend more time on maintaining medical records than caring for patients. The solution is to be as efficient as possible. Use customized or standard medical abbreviations.