NHA MAA Certification Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

The section of a patient's progress note that contains the reason for the visit is the Chief Complaint (CC). This part of the note succinctly captures the primary issue or concern that prompted the patient to seek medical attention. It is vital for healthcare providers to document this information accurately, as it guides the clinical evaluation and decision-making process.

The Chief Complaint is typically presented in the patient's own words, providing context for the clinician regarding the patient's experience and expectations. Accurate documentation in this section contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s health status and assists in establishing appropriate treatment plans.

While other sections, like the Physical Examination (PE), Review of Systems (ROS), and Social History (SH), also hold importance in a patient's progress note, they focus on different aspects of a patient’s health and history. The PE involves findings from the physical examination, the ROS includes a review of symptoms from various body systems, and the SH provides insights into the patient's lifestyle and habits. None of these sections directly address the reason the patient sought care, which is why the Chief Complaint is specifically the correct answer for identifying the reason for the visit.