Paper Charting venting

[raindrops1234]

Hey everyone! I am not sure if I am here to vent or to ask for any words of wisdom. I just finished my orientation at my new job last week as a new grad. I got four orientation shifts in total (as I am casual). While I was running around trying to figure everything out I got good feedback that I was going to do great. BUT my biggest issue is the paper charting. Throughout school we have electronic charting so that's what I am used to. But the paper charting is adding a lot of extra stress to trying to figure everything out. And having to try and read doctor's orders is so hard and time consuming (I know....get used to it). I know a lot of places paper chart, and that used to be the way everything was done, but I feel like I don't know anything because trying to figure out where to find certain information, document certain things, is taking up so much more time than if it were electronic charting. I feel horrible for venting about it as it clearly works on the unit but I am just having trouble starting as a new grad having to learn how to document…Really dreading my first shift on my own.

[raindrops1234]

Ive been a nurse for a long time, plus I used to be a travel RN, so I've worked with a lot of different charting. That being said, IMHO, if you're having a difficult time with the paper charting, the best thing to do is sit down with all of the different papers and see which one "flows" with the others. Don't panic, slow down, and just pick through it and sort it out. It's easier to understand the charting, then it is to just memorize it. Take a bit of time before or after a shift when you won't be interrupted.

Also, keep in mind that when it comes to electronic charting, it's not perfect. Computers can crash, they require maintenance and updating, etc, and then ultimately you need to rely on paper charting. LOL

It's been around successfully for a long time, and used by many. You'll catch on! :)

Thank you for the advice :)

And yes, it is certainly more frustrating when there are technological difficulties! Haha.

[JordanRose]

I didn't know that any hospital in the US still did paper charting. I didn't mind the paper charting, but everything now is electronic. I think there is some definite advantages to paper charting vs electronic. Paper charting is so much easier to do narrative charting which no matter what the power to be think, there will be a place for in medical documentation. Electronic charting is definitely easier for reading, but sometimes I find it hard to get the "whole picture" of the patient in an electronic chart. Hang in there. You probably won't have to do it for very long.

[blondy2061h, MSN, RN]

You are a new grad being turned loose with FOUR orientation shifts?

You have way bigger problems than paper charting my friend.

Generally speaking in this day and age if I hear of a facility with paper charting I figure that is an indication of a deeply backward and financially struggling facility.

[blondy2061h, MSN, RN]

Yep, I am in Canada. Went to school in the West and now I am working out East and things are very different!

And I am in Radiation Oncology!

The nice thing about being in such a specialized field is that you will see the same orders repeatedly from the same providers. Even if it looks like Chinese you'll know that particularly scribble represents Lorazepam 0.5mg PO 30 mins before treatment signed by Dr. Bob.

[Fiona59]

I didn't know that any hospital in the US still did paper charting. I didn't mind the paper charting, but everything now is electronic. I think there is some definite advantages to paper charting vs electronic. Paper charting is so much easier to do narrative charting which no matter what the power to be think, there will be a place for in medical documentation. Electronic charting is definitely easier for reading, but sometimes I find it hard to get the "whole picture" of the patient in an electronic chart. Hang in there. You probably won't have to do it for very long.

Did you read any of this thread? OP isn't in the US

[SteffaDee, BSN, RN]

In the past I have been provided with and/or made copies of forms and documents that are frequently used. That way you can become familiar with them on breaks or when you go home etc. I consider it like research time as it makes me more proficient at my job.