Observations and vitals
Review and update patient observations from the chart or a visit record. Edit an observation's value and note when the record is not read-only.
Observations are clinical measurements and findings recorded on the patient's chart or on a specific visit. Use the patient chart for the longitudinal record. Use the visit records page when the observation belongs to that visit.
How do I edit an observation?
Open the patient first. In the left sidebar, click Patients, then click the patient's name. In the patient chart, open the clinical records area that contains observations. If the observation is part of a visit, in the left sidebar, click Visits, then click the visit and go to its records page.
Edit an observation when the recorded value or note needs correction.
- Open the observation's details.
- Select Edit.
- Update the observation value.
- Update Note if the result needs context.
- Select Save changes.
The observation updates in the patient's chart. Ona shows Saved when the update is complete.
What can't I do here?
Observation actions are limited in these ways:
- Read-only records do not show add or edit actions.
- You cannot add or edit observations unless you are signed in as a clinic member with access to the chart.
- When editing an existing quantity observation, the current unit is the unit available in the edit form.
Common questions
Can I add a note to an observation?
Yes. In the left sidebar, click Patients, then click the patient's name and open the clinical records area that contains observations. Open Edit observation, update Note, then select Save changes.
Can I change an observation's value after saving?
Yes, when the record is not read-only. In the left sidebar, click Patients, then click the patient's name and open the clinical records area that contains observations. Open Edit observation, change the value, and select Save changes.
Can I change the observation name after saving?
The edit form shown here lets you change the observation value and Note. It does not show a control for changing the observation name.
Why can't I edit an observation?
The record may be read-only, or you may not be signed in as a clinic member with access to the chart.
Are vitals separate from observations?
Vitals are part of the clinical records area, but the exact vitals entry workflow depends on the vitals section in your workspace.
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