What principle is emphasized in documentation according to best practices?

The principle that is emphasized in documentation according to best practices is that "if it isn't documented, it didn't happen." This principle underscores the vital role that accurate and thorough documentation plays in the healthcare setting. It reinforces the notion that without written evidence of a patient's care, treatment decisions, and interactions, there is an increased risk of miscommunication and discrepancies in patient care.

Moreover, proper documentation serves multiple purposes: it ensures continuity of care, provides a legal record in case of disputes or audits, aids in the evaluation of treatment efficacy, and facilitates billing and reimbursement processes. The healthcare professional's notes must be comprehensive enough to support the care provided and defend against potential litigation.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with established best practices. For instance, requiring a verbal summary for every visit could lead to inconsistencies and subjective interpretations. Suggesting that documentation is optional for established patients undermines the need for thorough records in ongoing care. Lastly, prioritizing brevity at the expense of completeness could result in essential information being omitted, which would compromise the overall quality of patient care.