Which of the following effects can result from poor documentation in nursing?

Poor documentation in nursing can significantly contribute to an increase in misunderstandings among team members. When essential information regarding a patient's condition, care plan, or treatment interventions is not accurately or thoroughly documented, it creates gaps in knowledge among the healthcare team. As a result, team members may misinterpret a patient's needs, fail to coordinate care effectively, or duplicate efforts, leading to inconsistencies in treatment and potential harm to the patient.

In contrast, enhanced team cooperation, accuracy in evaluating client care, and streamlined communication are positive outcomes that are fostered by effective documentation. Good documentation ensures that all team members have access to the same information, promoting clarity and alignment in patient care. It supports accurate evaluations of client care by providing a clear record of what has been done and what still needs to be addressed, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of the healthcare team.