SAMPLE Health History Mnemonic
SAMPLE is a rapid health history mnemonic used in emergency and urgent care settings to quickly gather essential patient information. When time is limited and a full health history is not feasible, SAMPLE captures the critical elements that guide immediate clinical decisions. This mnemonic is frequently tested on the NCLEX in emergency and triage scenarios.
The Mnemonic
"SAMPLE"
Breakdown
Signs and Symptoms
What signs (objective, observable) and symptoms (subjective, reported by patient) are present? Assess the chief complaint and associated manifestations. This information guides the initial diagnostic workup and treatment plan.
Allergies
Does the patient have any known allergies to medications, foods, latex, contrast dye, or environmental substances? Document the allergen and the type of reaction (anaphylaxis vs. intolerance). This is critical before administering any medication.
Medications
What medications is the patient currently taking, including prescriptions, OTC drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies? Include dose, frequency, and last dose taken. Medications provide clues about underlying conditions and potential drug interactions.
Past Medical History
Relevant past medical and surgical history, chronic conditions, previous hospitalizations, and family history of significant diseases. Past history of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or seizures significantly affects current treatment decisions.
Last Oral Intake
When and what did the patient last eat or drink? This is essential if surgery or procedural sedation may be needed (aspiration risk). Also important for diabetic patients to assess hypoglycemia risk and for determining fluid status.
Events Leading Up
What events preceded the current complaint? What was the patient doing when symptoms began? This provides context for the illness or injury and helps establish a timeline. For trauma, determine the mechanism of injury.
Clinical Relevance
In emergency situations, nurses often do not have time for a complete health history. SAMPLE provides a structured approach to gathering the most critical information in minutes. On the NCLEX, knowing SAMPLE demonstrates your ability to prioritize data collection in time-sensitive situations. It is especially relevant for questions about emergency department triage, trauma assessment, and pre-operative screening.
Study Tips
- ✓Always ask about allergies before administering any medication, even in an emergency. This is a critical NCLEX safety concept.
- ✓Last oral intake is essential for any patient who may need surgery or sedation due to aspiration risk during anesthesia.
- ✓SAMPLE is used for rapid assessment; OLDCARTS is used for thorough symptom assessment. Know when to use each.
- ✓Events leading up to the complaint help identify the mechanism of injury in trauma and the progression of illness in medical emergencies.
FAQs
Common questions about this mnemonic
SAMPLE is used in emergency and urgent situations where time is limited and immediate clinical decisions must be made. In the emergency department, during triage, or when a patient's condition is rapidly deteriorating, SAMPLE captures the most critical information quickly. A full health history can be obtained later once the patient is stabilized.
Last oral intake is critical because a patient with a full stomach is at increased risk for aspiration during sedation, intubation, or surgery. Anesthesia guidelines typically require NPO status (nothing by mouth) for a specific period before procedures. Knowing when the patient last ate helps determine whether it is safe to proceed with emergent surgery or if additional precautions are needed.