Which items comprise the Objective data in a SOAP note?

• A. Chief complaint and history
• B. Social history only
• C. Vital signs, physical examination, and diagnostic tests
• D. Assessment and Plan

Answer: (C)

In SOAP notes, Objective data are observed and measured findings obtained by the clinician rather than patient-reported symptoms. This includes vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, temperature, etc.), findings from the physical examination (what the clinician observes directly), and results from diagnostic tests (labs, imaging, ECG, etc.). These elements are verifiable by others and do not rely on how the patient feels or reports symptoms.

The chief complaint and history are subjective data because they come from the patient’s own statements and experiences. Social history is also patient-reported information. The Assessment and Plan are synthesis and management decisions, not data gathered through observation or measurement.