What does the acronym SOAP stand for in charting?

The acronym SOAP stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan, which is a widely used method for documenting patient information and progress in clinical settings, particularly in physical therapy.

The subjective portion contains the patient’s verbal reports, perspectives, and feelings about their condition, including any pain they may experience or functional limitations. The objective section includes measurable data gathered through assessments, such as physical examinations and tests, allowing practitioners to document observable signs and relevant clinical findings.

The assessment component involves the therapist’s interpretation of the subjective and objective information, synthesizing it to formulate a professional judgment regarding the patient’s condition, which can help in identifying potential issues or improvements. Finally, the plan outlines the proposed course of treatment and any necessary interventions or strategies to address the identified problems, ensuring that the patient receives a structured program tailored to their needs.

This systematic approach enhances communication among healthcare providers, ensures consistent documentation, and improves overall patient care. Other options do not align with the recognized standards of clinical documentation used in physical therapy settings, making them less relevant for effective charting.