Fairfax Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP) Practice Exam

Can case notes be deleted?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only by the supervisor

4. Only when a client exits the program

The correct answer is: No

Case notes are a vital part of documentation in any program, including the Fairfax Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP). They serve to create a comprehensive record of the interactions and progress of clients throughout their treatment. The integrity of case notes is crucial for several reasons. First, they provide a legal record of the services provided and the decisions made, which can be essential in cases of audits or legal inquiries. Second, they ensure continuity of care; by retaining all notes, different practitioners can access a complete history of the client’s journey, which aids in delivering informed and effective treatment. For these reasons, the deletion of case notes is generally strictly regulated. Maintaining a complete and accurate record is a standard practice within professional therapeutic environments, and therefore, it is not permissible to delete them. This practice supports accountability and transparency, essential values in the fields of counseling and treatment.