What does the ‘S’ in SAMPLE stand for in medical history assessment?

In the context of medical history assessment, 'S' in SAMPLE stands for Signs and Symptoms. This acronym is widely used in emergency medical services and first responder training to help practitioners gather essential information about a patient's condition quickly and effectively.

Signs refer to the observable indicators of a condition or injury, such as swelling, bruising, or decreased movement. Symptoms are the subjective experiences reported by the patient, like pain, dizziness, or nausea. By assessing both signs and symptoms, first responders can form a more complete picture of the patient's health status, allowing for more effective treatment and decision-making in urgent situations.

Identifying and documenting Signs and Symptoms is critical in prioritizing care and communicating with other medical personnel who may take over the patient's treatment.