Kardex

A Dictionary of Nursing | 2008

Kardex (kar-deks) n. originally, the proprietary name for a filing system for nursing records and orders that was held centrally on the ward and contained all the nursing details and observations of patients that had been acquired during their stay in hospital. Although this system is no longer used for nursing records, since care plans are now held at the patient's bedside rather than centrally, the term ‘kardex’ continues to be used generically, for certain centrally held patient record systems.

Reference: Encyclopedia.com

Kardex

Alternative forms kardex, cardex

Etymology Alteration of card (“data recorded on durable paper”) + -exNoun Kardex (plural Kardexes)

1. (medicine) A medical-patient information system using preprinted forms on durable card stock.
2. Any device or system for paper-based record-keeping that used products that bore the Kardex trademark, or a similar system, or an electronic system that replaced it.

Reference: Wiktionary

Kardex

Trademark for a card-filing system that allows quick reference to the particular needs of each patient for certain aspects of nursing care. Included on the card may be a schedule of medications, level of activity allowed, ability to perform basic self-care, diet, any special problems, a schedule of treatments and procedures, and a care plan. The Kardex is updated as necessary and is usually kept at the nurses' station.

Mosby's Medical Dictionary, 8th edition. © 2009, Elsevier.

Reference: The Free dictionary