Definition & Operational Usage of Kardex
What Is Kardex?
A Kardex in emergency medical services and healthcare refers to a centralized, quick-reference patient summary record — kept at nursing stations or integrated into electronic health records (EHR) — containing current diagnoses, DNR/POLST status, medication schedules, allergies, and emergency contact details.
Why Kardex Matters on the Fireground
When EMS responds to nursing homes or assisted living facilities, obtaining the patient's Kardex or summary sheet instantly informs paramedics of baseline mental status, code status (DNR/DNAR), and current medications, preventing inappropriate resuscitation or drug interactions.
Relevant NFPA Standards
- NREMT Standards: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Practice Standards
- NFPA 455: Standard for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Field Procedures & Tactical Steps
- Request the patient's Kardex summary sheet immediately upon arriving at a healthcare facility call.
- Check code status (DNR, DNI, Full Code, POLST/MOLST) before initiating invasive resuscitation.
- Review baseline neurological function to determine if current altered mental status is acute or chronic.
- Cross-reference facility Kardex medication list with patient's home medications.
- Attach a copy of the Kardex information to the prehospital ePCR for hospital turn-over.
Common Context & Application
Reviewed by EMS crews during inter-facility transfers and emergency responses to nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and hospice facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kardex
What critical legal document must EMS verify on a facility Kardex during cardiac arrest?
How does a Kardex assist paramedics during inter-facility transfers?
Other Names for Kardex
Kardex may also appear in training materials, NFPA standards, or department SOPs as: patient information system, medical summary, care plan.
Relevant Tools
Operational calculators related to Kardex: