What does the acronym "SOAP" refer to in medical documentation?

The acronym "SOAP" refers to Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan, which is a widely used method in medical documentation. This format helps healthcare professionals organize and communicate patient information clearly and effectively.

The "Subjective" part captures the patient's personal experience, including their symptoms and feelings, which may not be measurable but are critical to understanding their condition. The "Objective" section provides measurable and observable data collected during the physical examination or diagnostic tests, such as vital signs and lab results.

Next is the "Assessment," where the healthcare provider evaluates the information from the subjective and objective sections to form a diagnosis or clinical impression. Finally, the "Plan" outlines the proposed treatment strategies, follow-up appointments, and any necessary referrals.

This structured approach enhances the accuracy of patient records and facilitates better communication among healthcare teams, ultimately leading to improved patient care. The other options do not reflect the standard components of the SOAP method, which specifically emphasizes a systematic approach focusing on both the patient's perspective and the healthcare provider's clinical findings.