What does the 'S' in SOAP Notes stand for?

The 'S' in SOAP notes stands for Subjective. SOAP notes are a structured method used by healthcare professionals, including Speech-Language Pathology assistants, to document patient progress and treatment. The 'S' section is where clinicians record the patient’s personal reports about their condition, feelings, and experiences related to their speech or language difficulties. This might include the patient’s complaints, opinions about their progress, and any other relevant information that reflects their perspective and emotional state.

Capturing subjective information is critical in understanding the patient's viewpoint, tailoring treatment approaches, and assessing their overall well-being. For instance, if a patient expresses frustration about their progress or notes improvements they've felt, this subjective input is essential for guiding the therapy process effectively.