Which step in the SAMPLE acronym refers to the patient's previous health conditions?

The SAMPLE acronym is a systematic tool used in first aid and emergency situations to gather critical information about a patient's condition. Each letter stands for a specific component, and in this context, the part that refers to the patient's previous health conditions is 'Past pertinent medical history.'

This step allows responders to understand any chronic illnesses, surgeries, or recurring medical issues that might affect the patient's current condition or influence treatment decisions. Knowing the patient's medical history can be crucial when assessing symptoms or determining appropriate interventions. For example, if a patient with a history of heart disease suddenly experiences chest pain, that background information is essential for both diagnosis and treatment.

The other components of the SAMPLE acronym serve different purposes: 'Signs and Symptoms' addresses what the patient is currently experiencing, 'Allergies' notes any adverse reactions the patient has had to substances, and 'Medications' refers to any drugs the patient is currently taking. While all these elements are important for a comprehensive assessment, it is the 'Past pertinent medical history' that specifically relates to the patient's prior health conditions.