Background:

The changes observed in nursing documentation prompted a historical study on the evolution of nursing records between 1958, when the Ministry of Health and Assistance was created, and 1998, when the Ordem dos Enfermeiros (Portuguese Nursing and Midwifery Regulator) was established. Thus, the analysis of publications on nursing records in Portuguese journals during this period was considered relevant.

Objective:

To identify and analyze the scientific production on nursing records published in Portuguese nursing journals between 1958 and 1998.

Methodology:

A bibliometric study was conducted by consulting 504 Portuguese nursing journals published between 1958 and 1998, using descriptors and inclusion criteria.

Results:

A final sample of 22 articles related to different aspects of nursing records was obtained.

Conclusion:

Nursing records have been a publication subject in Portuguese journals since 1984. The number of publications increased as changes occurred in the nursing profession. Nursing records have accompanied the nursing career’s professional reconfiguration and are essential for the profession’s autonomy.

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