Which component of SAMPLE addresses previous health conditions?

The component of SAMPLE that addresses previous health conditions is the past medical history. This part of the assessment focuses on any significant medical issues that the patient has experienced in the past, including chronic illnesses, surgeries, or any long-term health problems. Understanding a patient's past medical history is crucial for making informed decisions about their current treatment and understanding how their previous health conditions might affect their present situation.

In contrast, signs refer to the observable indicators of a medical condition, medications focus on any current prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs the patient is taking, and symptoms refer to what the patient is currently experiencing, such as pain or discomfort. Together, these components provide a comprehensive overview of the patient's health status, but it is the past medical history that specifically deals with former health conditions.