What term means a formal record documenting unusual events?

• A. Advance Directive
• B. Durable Power of Attorney
• C. Chain of Command
• D. Incident Report

Answer: (D)

When something unusual happens, organizations record it formally to ensure follow-up, accountability, and improvement. The term for this is an incident report. It captures what occurred, where and when it happened, who was involved or witnessed, any injuries or property damage, and the actions taken or planned afterward. This kind of documentation supports safety investigations, quality improvement, and regulatory compliance, and it’s often kept separate from routine records to avoid bias and ensure timely reporting. By contrast, an advance directive covers medical treatment preferences, a durable power of attorney designates someone to handle affairs, and a chain of command defines who has authority. So the incident report is the best fit because it specifically documents unusual events in a formal record.