What does the acronym "SOAP" stand for in nursing documentation?

The acronym "SOAP" in nursing documentation stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. This format provides a structured method for healthcare providers to document patient information efficiently and systematically.

The subjective component includes the patient's own words regarding their feelings, symptoms, and experiences, which helps to guide further assessment. The objective part consists of measurable data obtained through examinations, lab results, vital signs, and any other physical evidence that a clinician can observe.

The assessment is the clinician's analysis of the information collected from the subjective and objective components, which leads to the identification of patient problems or needs. Finally, the plan outlines the interventions that will be implemented to address the issues identified in the assessment, including treatments, further tests, education, and follow-up care.

This structured approach not only enhances communication within the healthcare team but also contributes to continuity of care and improved patient outcomes. The other options do not accurately reflect the widely accepted definitions of the acronym "SOAP" in nursing documentation.