What should you do if you make an error in a log book?

When an error is made in a log book, the appropriate action is to put a single line through the incorrect information, initial it, and reference the correct information. This method is essential for maintaining accurate records, as it ensures accountability and transparency. By crossing out the error and initialing it, you create a clear audit trail that shows the original entry and the correction made. This practice is crucial in correctional settings, where documentation accuracy impacts safety and legal accountability.

Additionally, it helps prevent misunderstandings or confusion that could arise from simply ignoring the error or attempting to start anew with a crumbled page, which would make it impossible to trace the history of the log. Asking a supervisor to correct the entry might be beneficial in some cases, but typically, an individual is expected to manage their own records with clarity and integrity, which is reflected in the chosen answer.