Audit trails are crucial for several reasons: - Accountability: They ensure that every action taken by a nurse or other healthcare professional is documented and can be traced back to the individual. - Legal Evidence: In case of legal disputes, audit trails can serve as evidence, showing that appropriate care was provided. - Quality Improvement: By analyzing audit trails, healthcare organizations can identify areas for improvement in clinical practice. - Compliance: They help in meeting regulatory requirements and standards set by healthcare governing bodies.