What is the characteristic of unit numbering in patient records?

The characteristic of unit numbering in patient records is that the patient retains the same number for every encounter. This system allows for a single, continuous patient record across all visits and interactions with the healthcare facility. By using a unique identifier for each patient, unit numbering simplifies the retrieval and management of patient information, providing a cohesive view of the patient's medical history. This method enhances continuity of care, as all encounters are linked to the same record, making it easier for healthcare providers to access previous information relevant to the patient.

In contrast, assigning a new number for each encounter would fragment the patient's records, making it difficult to track their medical history. Filing records in multiple locations could lead to disorganization and inefficiency, while arranging records in alphabetical order would not provide a systematic approach to maintaining a comprehensive history of patient encounters. Therefore, the approach of retaining the same number for each patient encounter is fundamental to effective patient record management.