What does the SAMPLE acronym help to remember in patient history taking?

The SAMPLE acronym is a clinical mnemonic that is fundamental in emergency medical services for gathering a patient's medical history during an assessment. Each letter in SAMPLE stands for a specific area of inquiry:

• S for Signs: These are observable indicators of a patient's condition, such as visible injuries or abnormal vitals that can be assessed by the EMT.

• A for Allergies: This refers to any known allergies the patient may have that could affect treatment, particularly concerning medications, food, or environmental triggers.

• M for Medications: Knowing what medications the patient is currently taking can provide crucial information about their medical history and may influence treatment decisions.

• P for Past medical history: This includes previous health issues, chronic conditions, or significant medical events that might be relevant to the current situation.

• L for Last oral intake: Understanding when and what the patient last ate or drank helps in assessing their condition and planning treatment, especially if surgery is a possibility.

• E for Events leading up to the present illness/injury: This involves understanding the circumstances or activities that preceded the patient’s current medical condition, which can provide insight into the cause of the problem.

Each element of the SAMPLE acronym