What does the SOAP method stand for?

The correct answer, which is the SOAP method, refers to a structured approach used in healthcare documentation. The acronym stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan.

In this context, 'Subjective' encompasses the patient's personal accounts of their feelings, conditions, and symptoms, which are often gathered during patient interviews or reported by the patient themselves. 'Objective' details the observable and measurable data collected during examinations, such as vital signs or laboratory results. 'Assessment' involves the healthcare provider's clinical judgment regarding the patient's condition, synthesizing the subjective and objective data to arrive at a diagnosis or understanding of the situation. Finally, 'Plan' outlines the proposed interventions, treatments, and follow-up measures to address the patient's needs.

This systematic framework helps healthcare professionals maintain clarity and thoroughness in clinical records, ensuring effective communication and continuity of care. The other options do not align with established terminology in clinical practice and lack the key elements necessary for the SOAP note structure.