Documentation and Storage of Records

Documentation and storage of health records are challenges in any independent nursing practice. What is considered documentation? How often is documentation to be completed? Where is the documentation and records to be stored? Who has access to the documentation record? How long is the record to be maintained and stored? And, who owns the record? These questions all have legal implications. This chapter will address these questions identifying the risks and implications related to this important practice issue for faith community nurses, faith leaders, and communities. The importance of harvesting data from these records and using the data to demonstrate value will also be addressed.