In SOAP notes, which component records observable data such as vitals and physical findings?

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

Answer: (B)

Observable measurements like vitals and physical findings belong in the Objective portion. This section is for what the clinician can observe, measure, or detect during the exam—things such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration rate, temperature, and tangible exam findings (lung sounds, abdominal tenderness, skin condition) as well as any test results. The other sections capture different things: Subjective is what the patient reports in terms of symptoms and experiences, Assessment is the clinician’s diagnostic judgment, and Plan outlines treatment steps, orders, and follow-up. So, since vitals and physical findings are measurable observations made by the clinician, they fit best in the Objective part.