Flagging the Chart

Flagging System for Patient Charts

The chart is flagged using a plastic tab located at the front of the chart binder. This flagging system is used to communicate important information to the nursing staff. Each flag has a different color, and each color conveys specific meaning to physicians, nurses, and unit clerks who interact with the chart.

The flags are located in the first divider of the binder, and the flag (or tab) is physically pulled up to indicate a particular action has been taken or is required. Here’s a breakdown of each type of flag:

  1. Doctor’s Order Tab

    • Purpose: This tab is pulled up when new orders have been written by the physician.

    • Meaning: It indicates to the NUC that there are new orders to be processed.

  2. Medication Order Tab

    • Purpose: This tab is pulled up when medication orders have been written.

    • Meaning: It signals that medication orders need to be reviewed and processed by the NUC.

  3. Stat Orders Tab

    • Purpose: This tab is pulled up when stat orders (urgent orders) have been written.

    • Meaning: Stat orders require the NUC’s immediate attention, and processing these orders becomes the NUC’s top priority.

  4. Nurse’s Attention Tab

    • Purpose: This tab is pulled up once the NUC has processed the orders.

    • Meaning: It communicates to the RN (Registered Nurse) that new orders have been received and processed, and the RN should review and act on the orders.

This system helps ensure that all members of the healthcare team are aware of the status of the patient’s orders and that tasks are prioritized accordingly.