Health History Assessment: SAMPLE

In general, do not obtain a detailed history until life-threatening injuries have

been identified and therapy has been initiated. The secondary survey is
essentially a head-to-toe assessment of progress, vital signs, etc. SAMPLE is
often useful as a mnemonic for remembering key elements of the patients
health history.

S: Symptoms
A: Allergy
M: Medications
P: Past Medical History
L: Last Oral Intake
E: Events leading up to the illness or injury