Understanding SAMPLE History for EMTs

Feb 28, 2025

EMT Prep Education: SAMPLE History

Introduction

  • Focus of the video: Discussing the SAMPLE history process for EMT professionals.

Acronym Breakdown

S - Signs/Symptoms

  • Objective: Ask the patient to describe their experiences in their own words.
  • Context: Applicable for both traumatic injuries and illnesses.

A - Allergies

  • Objective: Identify any allergies to medications.
  • Action: Document the patient's response.

M - Medications

  • Objective: Record any prescription medications the patient is currently using or has used regularly.

P - Past Pertinent Medical History

  • Common Issue: Misunderstanding the scope; gather comprehensive medical history, not just what seems pertinent to the current event.
  • Objective: Provide a fuller picture of the patient's medical history when they arrive at the hospital.

L - Last Oral Intake

  • Objective: Determine the last food or drink consumed.
  • Purpose: Assess its potential role in the current condition.

E - Events Leading Up

  • Objective: Understand the sequence of events leading up to the emergency.
  • Purpose: Identify triggers that led to calling 911.

Conclusion

  • Goal: Conduct a thorough SAMPLE history to assist in patient assessment and transition to hospital care.
  • Additional Resources: