What does the “S” in SOAP stand for?

In the context of the SOAP note format, which is widely used in medical documentation, the "S" stands for "Subjective." This component captures the patient's personal account of their symptoms, feelings, or experiences related to their condition. It is crucial for health care providers to understand the patient's perspective, which helps inform diagnosis and treatment decisions.

The subjective section often includes direct quotes from the patient, descriptions of their symptoms, and any relevant medical history as reported by the patient. This information is essential for a comprehensive assessment and is typically followed by the "O" for Objective, where measurable data like vital signs and physical examination findings are documented.

This structured approach enables health care professionals to effectively communicate and track the patient's progress over time, enhancing the quality of care delivered.