What does the acronym SOAP stand for in medical documentation?

The acronym SOAP stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. This format is widely used in medical documentation to provide a structured way of recording patient information.

"Subjective" pertains to information that the patient shares about their symptoms and feelings, giving insight into their experience from their own perspective. "Objective" involves observable data collected by the healthcare provider, such as vital signs, physical examination findings, and lab results. The "Assessment" section combines the subjective and objective data to provide a diagnosis or understanding of the patient's condition. Finally, "Plan" outlines the proposed interventions or treatments that will be provided, guiding future patient care.

This structure is beneficial as it enhances communication among healthcare professionals, ensures a comprehensive view of the patient’s health status, and helps in tracking the patient's progress over time. The other options mention terms that do not align with the established medical documentation format of SOAP, which focuses specifically on the elements outlined in the correct choice.