What is included in the 'Objective' element of SOAP charting?

The 'Objective' element of SOAP charting focuses on observable, measurable data collected during a client interaction or evaluation. This part of the charting is concerned with factual observations that a practitioner can record, which includes things such as the physical findings, test results, and any work done by the practitioner during the session.

In this context, your observations and the work you have conducted demonstrate a professional viewpoint, capturing what transpired without interpretation or personal feelings. This element serves as a critical foundation for clinical documentation, allowing others to understand directly what was observed and what actions were taken. By maintaining objectivity, this component supports accurate assessments and informed decisions regarding patient care moving forward.