subject: An Introduction to Health Care Punching Patterns [print this page] An Introduction to Health Care Punching Patterns
Chart paper used in health care applications comes in a variety of styles. Paper used for medical charts is always punched and often colored as well. The holes vary in number and spacing depending on which type the hospital or medical office prefers, though they are always on either the top or left side of the page. Here is a listing of some of the varieties.
Two holes. Generally double hole punched paper has the holes at the top spaced evenly across the page. This type is usually white paper in a 20 pound bond weight. Because there are only two holes, it is the fastest to secure or remove.
Five holes. Five holes can be at the top or on the left. When at the top, the holes are evenly spaced. Paper like this comes in either 20 pound or 24 pound weights. The holes may be either 5/16 inch or inch in diameter. Common colors include white, pink, canary, blue, ivory, and green. When punched on the left, the holes are placed in one of two orientations. The first is with three close together in the center and one more toward each edge. This paper comes in 20 pound and 24 pound bond weights with either 5/16 inch or inch holes. The second style is five evenly spaced holes. Either one works just as well as the other and simply depends on which type of chart holder is being used.
Seven holes. Paper with seven holes comes in a standard 20 pound bond weight and is almost always white. Three holes are spaced evenly down the page with a pair of holes between the two spaces left.
Twelve holes. Paper punched with twelve holes is the most versatile. It pairs seven holes down the side with five evenly spaced across the top. This allows the paper to work with a chart designed for two holes, five holes, or seven holes. It can also work in either a vertically or horizontally secured chart.
Each punching pattern has its own pros and cons. For example, the three variations on five-holed paper make it a versatile option. However, it would be the easiest to mix up when doing a quick order or grabbing as stack of paper without paying close attention. Having the wrong paper wastes time and money. Seven holes down the side would be the most time-consuming to attach but would be the most secure. And the hole spacing allows it to work with charts designed for either spacing of the five holes punched on the left. Paper punched with twelve holes is the most flexible. All the holes along with the varied spacing allows it to attach to any chart used. But the holes on the unused side decrease the printable space on the page.
Overall this may seem confusing. However, having all the options actually make it simpler. Choose the chart that works the best for you and between these punching patterns, there will be a perfect paper for you.
