Mnemonics are an intrinsic part of learning in EMS. Let’s talk about SAMPLE!
SAMPLE is used for patient history and stands for:
S: Signs & Symptoms
A: Allergies
M: Medications
P: Past pertinent medical history
L: Last oral intake
E: Events leading up to
Most commonly referred to as a “sample history” this is the mnemonic we use to make sure we get a good and thorough snapshot of the patients medical history. Keep in mind that you can obtain this information from a bystander as well.
Signs & Symptoms: What signs and symptoms occurred at the onset of the incident? Does the patient report pain?
Note: Signs are the things that you can see and are considered objective. Symptoms are the things that you cannot see and are considered subjective. See also Signs vs Symptoms.
Allergies: Is the patient allergic to any medication, food, or other substance? What reactions did the patient have to any of them.
Note: If the patient has No Known allergies, you should note this in your report as “No Known Allergies” or “NKA”. If the patient was unresponsive or you were otherwise unable to obtain the information, you should note this as “Unknown” or “UNK”.
Medications: What medication is the patient prescribed? Dosage, frequency? Does the patient take recreational drugs? Any missed medications?
Note: Look around for medication bottles. Look in the refrigerator for insulin as well.
Past Pertinent Medical History: Does the patient have any history of medical, surgical, or trauma occurrences? Has the patient had a recent illness, injury, fall, or blow to the head? Is there important family history that should be known?
Note: If you are there today for chest pain, you do not need to know about an ingrown toenail from three years ago! You goal should be to become good at cyphering through and getting to the pieces of information that you need, while maintaining a good rapport and good communication with your patient.
Last Oral Intake: When did the patient last eat and/or drink? What did the patient eat or drink, and how much was consumed?
Note: While asking this question take a look around at what is in plain sight. Cups, water bottles, plates ect. Are there signs in the house that they have not been eating, or have not been eating well?
Events: What are the key events that led up to this incident?
Note: There could very well be some details here that help guide your treatment plan. Over exertion, something new in their diet, something that is different from the normal.
Further notes on SAMPLE history: You can customize the delivery of SAMPLE to put your own unique style to it as long as you achieve obtaining the information you need to complete a good and thorough history.
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