OPQRST

What is OPQRST used for in patient assessment?

OPQRST is used to assess symptoms, most easily for pain, but it can also be adapted for dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.

What does the "O" in OPQRST stand for and what questions are asked?

O = Onset. Ask: What were you doing when the symptoms began?

What does the "P" in OPQRST stand for and what questions are asked?

P = Provocation/Palliation. Ask: Does anything make the symptoms better or worse? How are you most comfortable?

What does the "Q" in OPQRST stand for and what questions are asked?

Q = Quality. Ask: What does the symptom feel like? Is it sharp, dull, crushing, or tearing? Does it come in waves? Ask the patient to describe the symptom.

What does the "R" in OPQRST stand for and what questions are asked?

R = Region/Radiation. Ask: Where do you feel the symptom? Does it move anywhere?

What does the "S" in OPQRST stand for and what questions are asked?

S = Severity. Ask: On a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being “nothing at all” and 10 being “the worst you can imagine,” how would you rate your symptom?

What does the "T" in OPQRST stand for and what questions are asked?

T = Timing. Ask: Has the symptom been constant, or does it come and go? How long have you had the symptom? When did it start?