What does the abbreviation 'SOAP' stand for in medical documentation?

The abbreviation 'SOAP' in medical documentation stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. This format is widely used by healthcare professionals to organize patient information in a clear and systematic manner.

The 'Subjective' component encompasses the patient’s reported symptoms and feelings, which provide context about their health status from their perspective. The 'Objective' section contains measurable and observable data collected during the physical examination and diagnostic tests, offering concrete evidence of the patient’s condition.

The 'Assessment' part allows healthcare providers to interpret the subjective and objective information, leading to a diagnosis or understanding of the patient's health situation. Lastly, the 'Plan' describes the proposed interventions, treatments, or further tests that will be carried out to address the patient's health needs.

This structured approach enhances communication among healthcare team members and facilitates effective patient care, allowing for easier tracking of progress and outcomes.