Which section of the SOAP note contains the patient's reported symptoms and concerns?

• A. Subjective
• B. Objective
• C. Plan
• D. Assessment

Answer: (A)

The section that contains the patient's own reports of what they’re experiencing—their symptoms and concerns as described by the patient—belongs to the subjective portion. This part records the chief complaint and what the patient says about onset, duration, quality, intensity, and factors that worsen or improve the symptoms, along with any other concerns they raise and relevant history provided by the patient. It’s the place where the patient’s words guide the initial understanding of their problem.

The other sections are about what the clinician observes and decides. The objective portion captures measurable data, such as physical exam findings, vital signs, and test results. The assessment is the clinician’s synthesis and diagnosis based on both subjective reports and objective findings. The plan outlines the chosen management steps, medications, tests, referrals, and follow-up.

So, the patient-reported symptoms and concerns are documented in the subjective section.