Because good documentation shouldn’t cost you your sanity (or your lunch break).

Charting Shouldn’t Feel Like a Full-Time Job

You gave the meds.
You did the assessments.
You saved the shift.
...But now it’s 6:15 PM and you still haven’t charted anything.

Documentation can feel like the most draining part of your shift—especially as a new nurse. But here’s the truth: you canchart faster without sacrificing quality, safety, or your nursing license. Let’s get into how.

1. Stop Trying to Remember Everything at the End

The biggest mistake new nurses make? Waiting to chart “when things slow down.” Spoiler: they rarely do.

💡 Real Tip:

Chart in real-time bursts (every 1-2 hour max). After each med pass, after a round, after an assessment—pause and plug in what you can. Think small windows, not one big block.

2. Use Templates to Build Your Narrative—Not Just Click Boxes

Yes, the charting system wants clicks. But your brain needs structure.

💡 Real Tip:

Use a personal template or brain sheet for each system (Neuro, Cardiac, GI, etc.) so when you document later, your language is consistent and complete.

Example:

• Neuro: Alert, Oriented x4, PERRLA, follows commands

• Cardiac: HR regular, apical pulse equal to radial, no edema

Copy/paste isn’t lazy—it’s efficient when accurate.

3. Use the “ABC” Rule for Prioritizing What to Chart First

If it can affect safety, legality, or outcomes—it needs to be charted first.

💡 Real Tip:

Think:

• A: Abnormal findings

• B: Behavior changes

• C: Critical interventions (meds, code response, new orders)
  Nail those first. The rest can follow.

4. Narrative Notes > Nothing at All

Afraid to write a narrative note because “what if I say the wrong thing?” Silence is worse.

💡 Real Tip:

When in doubt, narrate like a shift story.

“Pt c/o SOB. O2 sat dropped to 88%. Applied NRB. Charge and MD notified. Orders received. Pt stabilized to 95%.”
Keep it clear. Keep it chronological. Keep it clinical.

5. Make Charting a Team Culture—Not a Solo Stressor

You’re not the only one behind. Let’s normalize strategic charting breaks on your unit.

💡 Real Tip:

Pair up with a buddy to say:

“Let’s both knock out our charting for the next 15 minutes.”
Support each other. Set timers. Respect the pause.

💬 Final Words: Chart Smarter, Not Sloppier

Fast charting doesn’t mean sloppy charting.
It means learning your rhythm, leaning on systems, and protecting your energy.

Because charting is part of the shift—but it’s not your entire shift.

Want done-for-you templates and time-saving charting tips?
Explore the New Nurse Fast Track Series — built to make your documentation sharp, safe, and stress-free.