Whether using forms, child welfare databases, or a case record, choosing what to document and how can seem overwhelming for child welfare workers. Knowing how to determine what information to document and how and where to write it is an important skill. This course will help you become more confident when sharing information about the case and more knowledgeable about what you need to capture during your contact with families and other stakeholders. Documentation provides child welfare professionals an opportunity to write clear evidence of what is happening with a specific case. The worker must paint an objective picture of the case. Therefore, it is critical that child welfare professionals clearly and objectively document contacts with families, services provided, essential data, and obtain written reports from professionals and collaterals that are pertinent to the case.

This course includes some points for effectively managing documentation and adhering to Agency policy and timelines. It is important to note that at any time a case record could be transferred, pulled for a review, or subpoenaed by the court, therefore case information should be entered into the correct databases and updated timely.

Objectives:
   - Explain the importance of timely and objective documentation.
   - Prepare accurate and clear documents and reports
   - Assure documentation adheres to agency policy and timelines.

This course is approved for 3 Child Welfare Training Hours and General Social Work CEUs.