Which term is used to describe the overall medical condition of a patient that includes surgical history?

The term that refers to the overall medical condition of a patient, which encompasses both current health status and surgical history, is PMHx, or Past Medical History. This term includes all relevant medical conditions the patient has had in the past, such as chronic diseases, previous surgeries, and any significant medical events.

Understanding PMHx is vital for healthcare providers in the Emergency Department as it helps inform decisions about current treatment plans, potential complications, and the patient's long-term health management. It allows clinicians to piece together a comprehensive view of the patient's health status, thus guiding appropriate interventions.

Other terms like SHx (Social History), PHx (Past History), and FHx (Family History) do not encompass surgical history in the same comprehensive way. SHx pertains more to the patient’s lifestyle and social context, such as tobacco and alcohol use. PHx is often considered synonymous with PMHx but may lack specificity in some contexts. FHx focuses on genetic and familial health trends but does not include personal medical history. Hence, PMHx is the most appropriate answer for the overall medical condition that includes surgical history.