Immunization status of preschool children in a teaching practice

Of preschool children registered at a university family medicine centre, 82% were found to be adequately immunized. A review of patient charts, however, showed that 31% contained immunization information that was difficult to interpret; extensive home follow-up was required to confirm immunization data. Special emphasis must be placed on producing accurate, easily retrievable chart information. Practices where nurses had a major role in infant care had better immunization records. Given that immunization is now a requirement for school admission in Ontario, the cost and feasibility of a recall system of child immunization should be explored.