When documenting a patient's cardiac assessment in an electronic health record, selecting "WNL" indicates which type of documentation format?

Selecting "WNL," which stands for "within normal limits," is indicative of charting by exception (CBE). This documentation format is utilized when a nurse records only abnormal findings or significant deviations from the expected norm while assuming that all other aspects of the patient's condition that are not mentioned are normal. By using terms like "WNL," the nurse can efficiently document that the assessment did not yield any concerning findings, thereby focusing only on what is necessary and deviating from standard documentation practices.

In CBE, normal findings do not require extensive documentation. This method streamlines the documentation process, as it emphasizes the critical information that needs to be shared among healthcare team members. It is particularly useful in busy clinical settings, where time management is key for effective patient care.