In the SAMPLE history, what does the 'S' stand for?

In the SAMPLE history, the 'S' represents "Signs." This refers to the objective evidence of a patient's condition that can be observed or measured by the healthcare provider. Signs can include things like abnormal vital signs, rashes, swelling, or anything that can be seen or detected during a physical examination.

Understanding the difference between signs and symptoms is essential in the medical field. While symptoms are subjective experiences reported by the patient, such as pain or nausea, signs are the measurable or observable indicators that health care providers can assess. By focusing on signs in the SAMPLE history, EMTs can gain a clearer picture of the patient's condition that can help guide treatment decisions.