What could contribute to medical errors in an EHR system?

The correct answer identifies that illegible or incorrectly interpreted handwritten orders can significantly contribute to medical errors within an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Although EHR systems are designed to minimize errors by transitioning away from handwritten documents, the legacy of handwritten orders can still impact the accuracy of the data entered into an EHR. If a handwritten order is unclear, it can lead to misinterpretation by medical staff, potentially resulting in incorrect medication administration, dosages, or treatment plans. This highlights the importance of clear communication and accurate transcription in clinical settings.

However, the other options do not align with contributing to medical errors in a similar way. Excessive patient documentation could lead to information overload, which may impact the efficiency of care but doesn’t directly cause errors in the same manner as misinterpreted orders. Well-structured electronic templates are designed to standardize processes and ensure that entries are uniform, which typically reduces errors. Similarly, standardized communication protocols help ensure that information is conveyed accurately between healthcare providers, further minimizing the likelihood of errors.