What is charting by exception?

Charting by exception is a documentation method used in healthcare and other fields that focuses on recording only significant deviations from established norms or standards. Instead of detailing every aspect of a patient's condition or care, healthcare providers note unusual findings, changes in status, or specific interventions that deviate from the expected plan. This approach streamlines the documentation process, enhances efficiency, and allows for quicker identification of critical issues that require attention.