ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

A client tells the health coach that she has been feeling depressed in the evenings and often overeats as a result, in which section of a SOAP note should this information be recorded?

1. S

2. O

3. A

4. P

The correct answer is: S

In a SOAP note, the "S" section stands for "Subjective," which is where the client's personal experiences, feelings, and perceptions are documented. The information about the client's feelings of depression in the evenings and her tendency to overeat as a result are personal accounts of her emotional state and behaviors. These subjective statements are crucial for understanding the client's overall well-being and mental health context. Recording this type of information in the "Subjective" section allows the health coach to capture the client's perspective, which is essential for developing a tailored approach to her health and wellness plan. This section highlights the importance of listening to the client's narrative and understanding her challenges from her viewpoint, which can guide the health coach in addressing her needs effectively.