Nursing Notes - Study Notes
Introduction
Nursing notes are written records used by nurses to document patient care, observations,
treatments, and responses to interventions. They support continuity of care,
communication among healthcare professionals, and legal documentation.
Purposes of Nursing Notes
Provide accurate patient information.
Facilitate communication among healthcare workers.
Serve as legal evidence of care provided.
Monitor patient progress and outcomes.
Support quality assurance and research.
Characteristics of Good Nursing Notes
Accurate
Clear and concise
Objective
Timely
Complete and legible
SOAP Format
S – Subjective: Information reported by the patient.
O – Objective: Observable and measurable data.
A – Assessment: Nurse’s clinical judgment.
P – Plan: Nursing actions and future care.