What does the acronym SOAP stand for in physical therapy documentation?

In physical therapy documentation, the acronym SOAP stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. This framework is used to organize patient information in a structured manner, ensuring that all aspects of patient evaluation and care are clearly communicated.

The "Subjective" component includes the patient’s report of symptoms, feelings, and personal experience regarding their condition. This information is essential as it reflects the patient's perspective and can influence the treatment plan.

The "Objective" section consists of measurable data collected during the physical therapy session, including findings from physical examinations, results from specific tests, and observations made by the therapist. This part provides concrete evidence to support clinical reasoning.

The "Assessment" involves the therapist’s interpretation of the subjective and objective information. It offers insight into the patient's condition, progress, and the therapist's clinical reasoning regarding the treatment protocols being implemented.

Finally, the "Plan" outlines the subsequent steps for the patient's treatment, including the goals of therapy, specific interventions to be used, and any recommendations for further evaluation or referrals. This ensures that all team members involved in the patient's care are informed and aligned on the treatment strategy.

The other options provided do not accurately represent the commonly recognized components of SOAP documentation in the field of physical therapy.