What does the "S" in SAMPLE history stand for?

The "S" in SAMPLE history stands for "Signs and Symptoms." This term is essential in the context of assessing a patient during emergency medical situations.

When gathering a SAMPLE history, the "Signs" refer to the objective findings that can be observed by the responder, such as rash, swelling, or abnormal vital signs. In contrast, "Symptoms" are the subjective experiences reported by the patient, like pain, nausea, or dizziness. Collecting this information helps responders understand the patient's condition and determine appropriate care or interventions.

By accurately identifying both signs and symptoms, emergency medical responders can form a clearer picture of the patient's health status, allowing for more effective treatment and communication with advanced medical services. This component of the SAMPLE history is critical for making informed decisions in an emergency care setting.