charting, the act of compiling data on clinical records or charts (computerized or paper). The charts are updated regularly to keep members of the health care team advised of changes in the patient’s condition. The data usually include responses to treatment, interventions undertaken, care provided, fluctuations in temperature, pulse rates, respiration, other variable factors, and much more, including all nursing care. By law, charting is required by all health and allied health professionals directly involved with patient assessment and care. See also documentation.
