What is the process of gathering information about a patient's past and current status called?

The process of gathering information about a patient's past and current status is referred to as examination. This phase involves collecting comprehensive data regarding the patient's medical history, physical health, psychological status, and any other relevant factors that might impact their treatment and recovery.

During the examination, healthcare professionals often utilize various methods such as interviews, physical assessments, and clinical tests to build a thorough understanding of the patient. This is fundamental for establishing a baseline that can guide further treatment and interventions effectively.

The term "assessment" is also closely related, as it does encompass examination, but it typically refers to the broader process that includes interpreting the collected data and formulating treatment plans. "Analysis" and "review" do not encompass the full scope of what is involved in directly gathering and compiling patient information in this context. Thus, the focus on the act of gathering data aligns specifically with the definition of examination.