What does the acronym SAMPLE stand for in secondary assessment?

The acronym SAMPLE is a systematic approach used during secondary assessments in emergency medical situations to gather important patient information. The correct interpretation of SAMPLE includes:

• Signs: Objective findings that you can observe during your assessment, such as vital signs, skin color, or any other observable factors.

• Allergies: Any known allergies the patient may have, which is crucial for avoiding allergens and understanding potential complications.

• Medications: This provides insight into what medications the patient is currently taking, which can be vital for treatment decisions and understanding their medical history.

• Past Medical History: Information about past health issues helps clinicians make informed decisions about current conditions and treatment plans.

• Last Oral Intake: Knowing when the patient last ate or drank is vital, especially for considerations regarding surgery or the administration of certain medications.

• Events Leading Up: Understanding what happened before the patient's current state can provide context for their symptoms and assist in diagnosing the issue.

This comprehensive approach helps healthcare providers collect essential data to make timely and effective decisions regarding patient care. The other options present variations that do not precisely align with the widely recognized framework used in medical assessments.