The A in SOAP stands for ______.

In the context of medical documentation, SOAP stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. The "A" specifically represents "Assessment," which involves the healthcare provider's evaluation of a patient's condition based on the subjective information provided by the patient (what they tell you) and the objective findings (what you observe and measure during the examination).

The Assessment section is critical because it allows the provider to interpret the data collected, identify any health issues, and establish the overall diagnosis or potential concerns. This integrated assessment forms the basis for creating a comprehensive plan for treatment or further investigation. Understanding this component is essential for effective communication and documentation in patient care, as it connects the subjective and objective findings to the clinician's conclusions about the patient's health status.