In the trauma secondary survey, what does the SAMPLE history stand for?

• A. SAMPLE stands for Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, and Event leading to injury
• B. SAMPLE is optional
• C. SAMPLE stands for Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, and Event leading to injury, and is used in trauma assessment
• D. SAMPLE history is not used in trauma assessment

Answer: (A)

In the trauma secondary survey, using SAMPLE gives a quick, structured history that helps guide treatment decisions and flags factors that could complicate care. The six elements are: Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, and Event leading to injury. This exact expansion is what the item expects as the correct answer, and it reflects the standard way providers systematically collect critical history after the primary survey. SAMPLE is not optional; it is a fundamental part of trauma assessment. While another option may convey a similar idea, the precise six components listed in this expansion are what define the mnemonic.