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How to Write Social Work SOAP Notes
SOAP stands for "subjective, objective, assessment, plan" – providing a standardized method of taking notes. SOAP notes are used by many professionals including social workers, physicians, counselors and psychiatrists. SOAP notes were first developed in 1964 as a means of providing accurate records of a patient's history, case details, prognosis, treatment and results. Through the use of each of the four areas in this record-keeping method, a social worker documents initial problems, steps taken to resolve the problem and the final results of these treatment steps.
Complete the subjective portion of the SOAP notes based on information obtained by the client. This should focus on the problem that brought the client in contact with the social worker, how the client understands the problem, how it affects his life and what he hopes to find in regard to help or treatment. This portion includes all relevant information provided by the client but should remain as brief and direct as possible. It may also include information from other people including doctors, family members or neighbors.
Write the objective portion of the notes to include all factual information. This covers both the social worker's personal observations of the client and any objective information from outside sources such as medical reports or the results of psychiatric testing. Avoid making judgments or using labels to describe the client.
Include your professional opinion in the assessment portion of the SOAP notes. This involves taking the information provided in the first two sections and using it to draw a final conclusion on the problem and the needs of the client. The assessment should also note possible areas of further inquiry or testing to guide proper treatment of the individual or family members.
Describe final recommendations or treatment to be used by the client in the plan section of the SOAP notes. This may include information such as referrals to outside agencies or consultations needed by the social worker with another professional regarding the client. Final decisions regarding the next steps to take, including dismissal from any further proceedings, should be noted in this section.
Tip
Record information during or immediately following meetings with the client to ensure accuracy of the records.
Write all SOAP notes in black pen for ease of reading and photocopying.
Warning
Leave no blank space between sections of the report and avoid writing in margins or adding additional information later on. This can be used in later court proceedings to question the validity of the report.
References
Tips
- Record information during or immediately following meetings with the client to ensure accuracy of the records.
- Write all SOAP notes in black pen for ease of reading and photocopying.
Warnings
- Leave no blank space between sections of the report and avoid writing in margins or adding additional information later on. This can be used in later court proceedings to question the validity of the report.
Writer
Kristin Urbauer has been freelance writing since 2009 when she began publishing work for various websites. She enjoys writing on a variety of topics including children, education, gardening, pets, mental health and alternative medicine. She attended the University of Nebraska where she majored in English.
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