Final answer:
SAMPLE stands for Signs/Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, Events leading up to the current situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of health, the acronym SAMPLE is used in the secondary assessment to determine potential causes of a medical emergency or arrest. SAMPLE stands for:
- Signs/Symptoms: any signs or symptoms the patient is experiencing
- Allergies: any known allergies the patient has
- Medications: any medications the patient takes regularly
- Past medical history: any relevant medical conditions or events from the patient's past
- Last oral intake: the last time the patient ate or drank anything
- Events leading up to the current situation: any events or activities that preceded the medical emergency
The SAMPLE acronym is a mnemonic device that helps healthcare professionals gather important information and assess potential causes of an arrest or emergency.