The tissue viability nurse and effective documentation

The problems associated with inadequate record keeping in tissue viability have been highlighted in a number of related legal proceedings, professional misconduct cases (UKCC 2001a,b), and investigations by the Health Service Commissioner (Ombudsman) (HSC, 2001). Each serves as a reminder of the importance of nursing documentation towards protecting the welfare of patients and clients. A rising tide in clinical negligence (National Audit Office, 2001), and in an increase in the number of nurses removed from the UKCC register (UKCC 2001c), indicate a greater likelihood of nurses (including specialists), being called to provide evidence of standards of care when investigating, predicting and managing clinical risk. This article examines the continued importance of documentary evidence to support such inquiries, clarifying the tissue viability nurse's responsibility in producing accurate and effective records in all aspects of an increasingly expanding role.