Where does a physician document what they noted about a patient?

A physician typically documents patient observations and assessments in a progress note. This document serves as a crucial part of the patient’s medical record, providing a chronological account of the patient's condition, treatment, and any changes observed during ongoing care. Progress notes are essential for tracking the patient's treatment plan and ensuring continuity of care among healthcare providers.

The other options serve distinct purposes within a patient's medical documentation framework. The patient chart is a broader term that encompasses all records of a patient's health information, while the medical history form primarily gathers initial health data and background from the patient. The discharge summary offers a comprehensive overview of the care provided during a hospital stay but is not used for daily or regular progress documentation throughout treatment.