One job role of a healthcare assistant is to write and maintain efficient patient records. This can include recording blood pressure and urine sample results, processing insurance information or filling out pre-surgery questionnaires and consent forms. It is imperative that these records are thorough, legible and accurate in order to protect the patient and the staff treating them. For example, an improperly completed consent form can pose legal issues at a later date if the patient complains that a procedure was completed poorly or against his will. Similarly, properly written operative notes protect a surgeon and patient from avoidable mistakes. It is critical to mention the importance to confidentiality and research the latest data protection policies in order to support your knowledge.