Data accuracy versus data completeness: which statement correctly differentiates completeness?

• A. Completeness ensures all required data are captured, while accuracy reflects correctness.
• B. Completeness refers to correctness; accuracy refers to thoroughness.
• C. Completeness measures timeliness; accuracy measures legibility.
• D. Completeness and accuracy are the same.

Answer: (A)

Completeness focuses on capturing all required data fields and ensuring nothing essential is missing in the record. Accuracy, on the other hand, is about whether the information that is entered reflects the true values and is correct. For example, a chart might have every required field filled out (complete) but if the blood pressure value or medication dose is entered incorrectly (not accurate), the record is complete but not accurate. Conversely, if a necessary field is missing, the record is incomplete even if the data that is present is correct. Timeliness or legibility aren’t the primary focus here; they address different data quality aspects. So the statement that completeness ensures all required data are captured, while accuracy reflects correctness, best differentiates the two.