Should we chart in 24-hour time?

[MikeyBSN]

We use the 24 hour clock in our ED. When we call the floors for report, we usually get "what is that, in real person time?" Personally, I think the 24 hour clock has more advantages than disadvantages. We are trying to get the entire hospital using the 24 hour model. What do you think?

[wooh, BSN, RN]

If I were asked to give that in real person time, I would just tell them , "Subtract 12"

I'd just give them the "real person time" as there's no reason to be a smartypants about it. Giving report isn't a time to prove that I'm smarter than the person I'm giving report to.

[RetiredTooSoon]

I've never not charted in 24 hour time; every hospital and clinic I've been affiliated with has used the 24 hour clock to help reduce errors when a.m. and p.m. are confused.

[Straydandelion]

There are fairly cheap watches that will switch from 12 to 24 hour time, with enough advanced notice and inservices I am thinking the change could be easily accomplished facillity-wide and the advantages of a more precise time would help.

[Balder_LPN, LPN]

I'd just give them the "real person time" as there's no reason to be a smartypants about it. Giving report isn't a time to prove that I'm smarter than the person I'm giving report to.

I would call it "hip pocket training" not smarty pants really. It assists in continuity of care, reduces errors, and is clearly the standard of care in our profession.

[Spidey's mom, ADN, BSN, RN]

I use military time in real life anyway

Then again, I also use the NATO Phonetic when I'm spelling out a difficult word (like my last name :icon_roll)

cheers,

Romeo Oscar Yankee

Well Romeo Oscar Yankee . . .. add my name to the list of folks who have never ever worked in a medical facility that did not use military time.

My name is too long to use NATO Phonetic . . .

steph

[iamablonde, BSN, RN]

I have always charted using military time. ALWAYS

[diane227, LPN, RN]

Yes. Most hospitals require it.