Documentation of contact requires entering all clients and collateral contacts within how many business days after the contact?

• A. 1 business day
• B. 3 business days
• C. 5 business days
• D. 7 business days

Answer: (B)

Timely documentation of every contact with clients and collateral contacts is essential for continuity of care, case planning, and accountability in OIMS. The standard window is within three business days after the contact to enter all details—who was involved, how the contact occurred, the purpose, a summary of the discussion, any decisions made, and the next steps. This timeframe balances prompt record-keeping with the practical needs of verifying information and coordinating with others. Remember that “business days” means weekdays excluding weekends and holidays, so if a contact happens on Friday, the entry would be due by Wednesday, assuming no holidays. Shorter timeframes like one day can be impractical due to workload and verification needs, while longer gaps such as five or seven days increase the risk of outdated or incomplete information, which can affect case management and compliance.