What is a nursing record?

The nursing record is where we write down what nursing care the patient receives and the patient's response to this, as well as any other events or factors which may affect the patient's wellbeing. These 'events or factors' can range from a visit by the patient's relatives to going to theatre for a scheduled operation.

What should go into a patient's nursing record?

If you are in any doubt about what to write down, it may be useful to ask yourself the following: “If I was unable to give a verbal handover to the next nursing team, or the next shift, what would they need to know in order to continue to care for my patients?” You want to ensure that the patient's care is not affected by the changeover of nursing staff.

How to keep good nursing records

The patient's record must provide an accurate, current, objective, comprehensive, but concise, account of his/her stay in hospital. Traditionally, nursing records are hand-written. Do not assume that electronic record keeping is necessary.

• Use a standardised form. This will help to ensure consistency and improve the quality of the written record. There should be a systematic approach to providing nursing care (the nursing process) and this should be documented consistently. The nursing record should include assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of care.
• Ensure the record begins with an identification sheet. This contains the patient's personal data: name, age, address, next of kin, carer, and so on. All continuation sheets must show the full name of the patient.
• Ensure a supply of continuation sheets is available.
• Date and sign each entry, giving your full name. Give the time, using the 24-hour clock system. For example, write 14:00 instead of 2 pm.
• Write in dark ink (preferably black ink), never in pencil, and keep records out of direct sunlight. This will help to ensure they do not fade and cannot be erased.
• On admission, record the patient's visual acuity, blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiration, as well as the results of any tests.
• State the diagnosis clearly, as well as any other problem the patient is currently experiencing.
• Record all medication given to the patient and sign the prescription sheet.
• Record all relevant observations in the patient's nursing record, as well as on any charts, e.g., blood pressure charts or intraocular pressure phasing charts. File the charts in the medical notes when the patient is discharged.
• Ensure that the consent form for surgery, signed clearly by the patient, is included in the patient's records.
• Include a nursing checklist to ensure the patient is prepared for any scheduled surgery.
• Note all plans made for the patient's discharge, e.g., whether the patient or carer is competent at instilling the prescribed eye drops and whether they understand details of follow-up appointments.