Registering is also caring: Analysis of documentation practices on suicidal behavior in general and specialized hospitals in Argentina

Abstract

Introduction: Health records play multiple roles within mental health care services and systems, from supporting individual clinical work to informing public policy development. Despite this, record-keeping as part of routine practice faces numerous barriers and challenges. As part of a larger study on consultations for self-inflicted injuries in general and neuropsychiatric hospitals in Argentina, this paper presents an analysis of the corresponding records. Methods: Records from February 2023 were reviewed using a structured form encompassing five domains: readability, comparability, documentary standardization, accessibility, and content. In addition, interviews were conducted with key informants from the management, statistics, and clinical departments of the participating institutions. Results: The findings highlight the need to strengthen documentary standardization—particularly through the implementation of predefined
data-entry fields—and to streamline and clearly define the minimum data required for reporting suicide attempts. The study offers a concrete proposal in this regard. Conclusions: The results emphasize the importance of enhancing staff
training, promoting a stronger sense of ownership of record-keeping as a core (rather than supplementary) professional responsibility, and ensuring the quality of care provided.