SOAP

Acronym for subjective, objective, assessment, and plan; used in problem-oriented records for organizing follow-up data, evaluation, and planning.

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subjective, objective, assessment, and plan [problem-oriented record]

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soap 'sōp n

1) a cleansing and emulsifying agent made usu. by action of alkali on fat or fatty acids and consisting essentially of sodium or potassium salts of such acids

2) a salt of a fatty acid and a metal

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(sōp) [subjective data; objective data; assessment; plan] a device for conceptualizing the process of recording the progress notes in the problem-oriented record (see under record): S indicates subjective data obtained from the patient and others close to him; O designates objective data obtained by observation, physical examination, diagnostic studies, etc.; A refers to assessment of the patient's status through analysis of the problem, possible interaction of the problems, and changes in the status of the problems; P designates the plan for patient care.