What term describes the patient's reason for the visit, usually recorded in their own words?

The term that describes the patient's reason for the visit, typically captured in their own words, is known as the chief complaint. This is a crucial aspect of patient care, as it serves as the primary focus for the healthcare provider during the initial evaluation and helps guide the clinical assessment and plan.

The chief complaint is specific to the patient and may include symptoms, concerns, or any particular issue that prompted them to seek medical assistance. Accurately documenting this in the patient's own language helps ensure that their feelings and perceptions are acknowledged and considered in their treatment plan.

Other terms mentioned, such as assessment, refer to the healthcare provider’s clinical evaluation based on physical examinations and tests rather than the patient's own statements. Objective information pertains to measurable data collected from physical examinations or diagnostic tests, while patient history encompasses broader context, potentially including past medical history, family history, and social factors beyond the current reason for the visit.