Within each class at Natural Steps, we keep records every day for nappy changes, sleep check sheets, food and bottles, and we also have accident/incident forms. At the beginning of each week (and every morning in the case of the sleep check sheet) I fill in the children's names on the new forms and file away the previous forms. These forms are kept in a folder on nursery one's shelf for three months, after which they are discarded. The accident forms however, are treated differently. Usually it is the head teacher of the room that handles these, but as this wasn't being done regularly, I offered to take on that responsibility. At the end of each calender month, the accident forms are collected and the totals of type and adult involved are tallied. If there is anything that requires attention, it is discussed with the office and staff members concerned. Otherwise these are filed in the office.
There was one incident that I came across that concerned me. I noticed that there were two copies of an incident involving a child during their nappy change, and neither had been signed by a parent of the child. I brought this up with the centre manager, and informed her that I would speak to the parent concerned. I thought just in case this needed to be discuss further she should know I would be speaking with A's parents. When I informed the parent in the morning, he seemed surprised and had no idea at all. All I could do was apologise, explain how the incident form process should work, and reassure that it wouldn't happen again. I also put a note in his daily diary just so we had it in writing.
I was really disappointed to see what I viewed as lack of respect for the child and their parents. Even if only a minor thing, parents should always be informed. We are caring for their children, and they expect nothing but the best from us - always. I did inform my head teacher when she returned to work the next day, letting her know that when I found the two forms, I spoke to the parents.
By taking on the role of tallying and filing the forms, I meeting dimension 18,Professional Relationships - maintains accurate records.
I am also meeting dimension 22, Professional Relationships - maintains confidentiality, trust and respect. By informing the parents that I had come across this incident form they hadn't seen, I am demonstrating my respect for them. I spoke privately with them, maintaining confidentiality, and explained what the correct procedure should have been. I am trying to build a trusting relationship between us.
