What does the acronym SAMPLE stand for in patient assessment?

The acronym SAMPLE stands for Signs/Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, and Events leading up to the present illness/injury. This mnemonic is used in patient assessment to ensure a thorough collection of important information that can influence patient care.

The first part, "Signs/Symptoms," helps healthcare providers differentiate between objective findings (signs) observed by the examiner and subjective feelings reported by the patient (symptoms), which are critical for diagnosing the patient's condition.

The inclusion of "Allergies" is essential for identifying any potential risks related to medication administration or other treatments. Knowing what substances a patient is allergic to can prevent adverse reactions.

"Medications" entails taking a complete inventory of the patient’s current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, which is important for avoiding drug interactions and understanding the patient’s medical history.

"Past medical history" provides background on previous health issues, surgeries, or chronic conditions that could be relevant to the current situation.

"Last oral intake" informs the provider of the patient’s nutritional status, which can be pertinent when considering treatment options, especially if surgery is a possibility.

Finally, "Events leading up to the present illness/injury" aids in establishing