EMT SAMPLE and OPQRST

What does the "S" in sample stand for?

Signs and Symptoms: look for obvious signs or deformities of trauma or pain and ask about what symptoms the patient is experiencing.

What does the "A" in sample stand for?

Allergies: Ask if they are allergic to any medication, whether it be a prescription, over the counter, herbs, or illegal drugs. Then ask the severity of the reaction to the drugs to determine if their body is actually allergic or just intolerant of them.

What does the "M" in sample stand for?

Medications; Find out any medications the patient is currently taking. Whether the medication is illegal, over the counter, or prescription. Ask if they have a medication list and attempt to get dosage instructions.

What does the "P" in sample stand for?

Past Pertinent Medical History: Clarify that only pertinent medical history is needed (we don't need their whole life's story) ask about any diagnosed disorders (such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, Coronary issues, or HIV.) , recent surgeries, and recent illnesses or diseases.

What does the "L" in sample stand for?

Last Oral Intake: Last food or drink or medication if it is pertinent. (this is important if they have to have surgery)

For women ask when the start of their last menstrual period was and for pediatrics ask about the last diaper change (diarrhea, and if they are bottle or breast fed)

What does the "E" in sample stand for?

Events leading up to the emergency: What was the patient doing prior to the emergency ?

OPQRST: O

Onset- Ask about how the symptoms started. Ask if it they came on suddenly, gradually over time, or if it is a chronic ailment.

OPQRST: P

Provocation/ Palliation: What makes the symptoms worse/ Better?

OPQRST: Q

Quality: ask the patient to describe the symptom in their own words.

OPQRST: R

Radiation/ Region: Ask if the pain moves anywhere? and where exactly the pain is?

OPQRST: S

Severity: ask the patient to rank their pain on a scale of 1-10.

OPQRST: T

Time: Ask when the symptom began and how long it has been going on? ask if the symptom is intermittent or constant.