What does the "s" in the acronym SAMPLE stand for?

The "s" in the acronym SAMPLE stands for "Signs and Symptoms." This acronym is a tool used in patient assessment to help EMTs gather important information about a patient’s condition. In the context of SAMPLE, "Signs" refer to the objective findings that the EMT can observe or measure, such as a rash, swelling, or unusual breathing patterns. These are physical indicators of a medical issue that can be detected by the healthcare provider during the assessment.

On the other hand, "Symptoms" are subjective experiences reported by the patient, such as pain, nausea, or dizziness. These are important for understanding the patient’s experience of their condition and can guide further treatment. Together, recognizing both signs and symptoms assists in forming a complete clinical picture, which is critical for establishing a diagnosis and treatment plan. This comprehensive approach is essential in emergency medicine and ensures that patients receive appropriate care based on both observable and reported information.