What does the acronym ROS stand for in a medical context?

In a medical context, the acronym ROS stands for Review of Symptoms. This term is commonly used during patient evaluations and assessments. The Review of Symptoms involves a systematic inquiry into the symptoms the patient may be experiencing across different organ systems. It helps healthcare providers gather essential information regarding a patient's current health status and identify any underlying conditions or issues that may not have been previously addressed.

The Review of Symptoms is typically integrated into patient history-taking and is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding of the patient's overall health. By using this approach, clinicians can better formulate differential diagnoses and tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs. It emphasizes the importance of not only examining the primary complaint but also exploring other symptoms that could be relevant to the patient’s health.