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10.1 Resource Observation - Content

Orders and Observations icon Work GroupMaturity Level: N Normative (from v4.0.0)Security Category: Patient Compartments: Device, Encounter, Patient, Practitioner, RelatedPerson

Measurements and simple assertions made about a patient, device or other subject.

This resource is an event resource from a FHIR workflow perspective - see Workflow.

Observations are a central element in healthcare, used to support diagnosis, monitor progress, determine baselines and patterns and even capture demographic characteristics, as well as capture results of tests performed on products and substances. Most observations are simple name/value pair assertions with some metadata, but some observations group other observations together logically, or even are multi-component observations. Note that the DiagnosticReport resource provides a clinical or workflow context for a set of observations and the Observation resource is referenced by DiagnosticReport to represent laboratory, imaging, and other clinical and diagnostic data to form a complete report.

Uses for the Observation resource include:

*The boundaries between clinical findings and disorders remains a challenge in medical ontology. Refer the Boundaries section below and in Condition for general guidance. These boundaries can be clarified by profiling Observation for a particular use case.

The following core profiles for the Observation resource have been defined as well. If implementations use this Resource when expressing the profile-specific concepts as structured data, they SHALL conform to the following profiles:

Profile Description
Vital signs The FHIR Vital Signs profile sets minimum expectations for the Observation Resource to record, search and fetch the vital signs (e.g. temperature, blood pressure, respiration rate, etc.) associated with a patient

At its core, Observation allows expressing a name-value pair or structured collection of name-value pairs. As such, it can support conveying any type of information desired. However, that is not its intent. Observation is intended for capturing measurements and subjective point-in-time assessments. It is not intended to be used for those specific contexts and use cases already covered by other FHIR resources. For example, the AllergyIntolerance resource represents a patient allergies, MedicationStatement resource: medications taken by a patient, FamilyMemberHistory resource: a patient's family history, Procedure resource: information about a procedure, and QuestionnaireResponse resource: a set of answers to a set of questions.

The Observation resource should not be used to record clinical diagnosis about a patient or subject that are typically captured in the Condition resource or the ClinicalImpression resource. The Observation resource is often referenced by the Condition resource to provide specific subjective and objective data to support its assertions, including symptoms and assessments of the presence or absence of diagnostically significant phenomena. Symptoms may sometimes be recorded as Conditions if no etiology has yet been identified, or if the symptom is severe enough to merit independent treatment, but in most cases a symptom can be represented in an Observation with a relationship to the Condition of concern. There will however be situations of overlap. For example, a response to a question of "have you ever taken illicit drugs" could in principle be represented using MedicationStatement, but most systems would treat such an assertion as an Observation. In some cases, such as when source data is coming from an HL7 V2 icon feed, a system might not have information that allows it to distinguish diagnosis, allergy and other "specialized" types of observations from laboratory, vital sign and other observation types intended to be conveyed with this resource. In those circumstances, such specialized observations may also appear using this resource. Adhering to such convention is an appropriate use of Observation. If implementers are uncertain whether a proposed use of Observation is appropriate, they're encouraged to consult with implementers on chat.fhir.org implementer's stream icon

When an Observation instantiates an ObservationDefinition, the elements of the Observation resource are expected to inherit their content from the corresponding definitional elements declared in the ObservationDefinition resource listed here here.

In contrast to the Observation resource, the DiagnosticReport resource typically includes additional clinical context and some mix of atomic results, images, imaging reports, textual and coded interpretation, and formatted representations. Laboratory reports, pathology reports, and imaging reports should be represented using the DiagnosticReport resource. The Observation resource is referenced by the DiagnosticReport to provide the atomic results for a particular investigation. "Laboratories routinely have a variable that is summative across a series of discrete variables - these are usually called 'impressions' or 'interpretations'. Sometimes they are algorithmically specified and sometimes they have the imprimatur of pathologists and they are conveyed in Observation or DiagnosticReport instead of the Clinical Impression resource. The Observation resource should not be used to record clinical diagnosis about a patient or subject as discussed above.

Structure

NameFlagsCard.TypeDescription & Constraintsdoco
.. Observation NDomainResourceMeasurements and simple assertions
+ Rule: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present
+ Rule: If Observation.component.code is the same as Observation.code, then Observation.value SHALL NOT be present (the Observation.component.value[x] holds the value).
+ Rule: bodyStructure SHALL only be present if Observation.bodySite is not present

Elements defined in Ancestors: id, meta, implicitRules, language, text, contained, extension, modifierExtension
... identifier Σ0..*IdentifierBusiness Identifier for observation

... instantiates[x] ΣTU0..1Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition
.... instantiatesCanonicalcanonical(ObservationDefinition)
.... instantiatesReferenceReference(ObservationDefinition)
... basedOn Σ0..*Reference(CarePlan | DeviceRequest | ImmunizationRecommendation | MedicationRequest | NutritionOrder | ServiceRequest)Fulfills plan, proposal or order

... triggeredBy TU0..*BackboneElementTriggering observation(s)

.... observation Σ1..1Reference(Observation)Triggering observation
.... type Σ1..1codereflex | repeat | re-run
Binding: triggered Bytype (Required)
.... reason 0..1stringReason that the observation was triggered
... partOf Σ0..*Reference(MedicationAdministration | MedicationDispense | MedicationStatement | Procedure | Immunization | ImagingStudy | GenomicStudy)Part of referenced event

... status ?!Σ1..1coderegistered | preliminary | final | amended +
Binding: Observation Status (Required)
... category 0..*CodeableConceptClassification of type of observation
Binding: Observation Category Codes (Preferred)

... code ΣC1..1CodeableConceptType of observation (code / type)
Binding: LOINC Codes (Example)
... subject Σ0..1Reference(Patient | Group | Device | Location | Organization | Procedure | Practitioner | Medication | Substance | BiologicallyDerivedProduct | NutritionProduct)Who and/or what the observation is about
... focus ΣTU0..*Reference(Any)What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record

... encounter Σ0..1Reference(Encounter)Healthcare event during which this observation is made
... effective[x] Σ0..1Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation
.... effectiveDateTimedateTime
.... effectivePeriodPeriod
.... effectiveTimingTiming
.... effectiveInstantinstant
... issued Σ0..1instantDate/Time this version was made available
... performer Σ0..*Reference(Practitioner | PractitionerRole | Organization | CareTeam | Patient | RelatedPerson)Who is responsible for the observation

... value[x] ΣC0..1Actual result
.... valueQuantityQuantity
.... valueCodeableConceptCodeableConcept
.... valueStringstring
.... valueBooleanboolean
.... valueIntegerinteger
.... valueRangeRange
.... valueRatioRatio
.... valueSampledDataSampledData
.... valueTimetime
.... valueDateTimedateTime
.... valuePeriodPeriod
.... valueAttachmentAttachment
.... valueReferenceReference(MolecularSequence)
... dataAbsentReason C0..1CodeableConceptWhy the result value is missing
Binding: Data Absent Reason (Extensible)
... interpretation 0..*CodeableConceptHigh, low, normal, etc
Binding: Observation Interpretation Codes (Extensible)

... note 0..*AnnotationComments about the observation

... bodySite C0..1CodeableConceptObserved body part
Binding: SNOMED CT Body Structures (Example)
... bodyStructure CTU0..1Reference(BodyStructure)Observed body structure
... method 0..1CodeableConceptHow it was done
Binding: Observation Methods (Example)
... specimen C0..1Reference(Specimen | Group)Specimen used for this observation
+ Rule: If Observation.specimen is a reference to Group, the group can only have specimens
... device 0..1Reference(Device | DeviceMetric)A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device
... referenceRange C0..*BackboneElementProvides guide for interpretation
+ Rule: Must have at least a low or a high or text

.... low C0..1SimpleQuantityLow Range, if relevant
.... high C0..1SimpleQuantityHigh Range, if relevant
.... normalValue TU0..1CodeableConceptNormal value, if relevant
Binding: Observation Reference Range Normal Value Codes (Extensible)
.... type TU0..1CodeableConceptReference range qualifier
Binding: Observation Reference Range Meaning Codes (Preferred)
.... appliesTo 0..*CodeableConceptReference range population
Binding: Observation Reference Range Applies To Codes (Example)

.... age 0..1RangeApplicable age range, if relevant
.... text C0..1markdownText based reference range in an observation
... hasMember Σ0..*Reference(Observation | QuestionnaireResponse | MolecularSequence)Related resource that belongs to the Observation group

... derivedFrom Σ0..*Reference(DocumentReference | ImagingStudy | ImagingSelection | QuestionnaireResponse | Observation | MolecularSequence | GenomicStudy)Related resource from which the observation is made

... component ΣC0..*BackboneElementComponent results

.... code ΣC1..1CodeableConceptType of component observation (code / type)
Binding: LOINC Codes (Example)
.... value[x] Σ0..1Actual component result
..... valueQuantityQuantity
..... valueCodeableConceptCodeableConcept
..... valueStringstring
..... valueBooleanboolean
..... valueIntegerinteger
..... valueRangeRange
..... valueRatioRatio
..... valueSampledDataSampledData
..... valueTimetime
..... valueDateTimedateTime
..... valuePeriodPeriod
..... valueAttachmentAttachment
..... valueReferenceReference(MolecularSequence)
.... dataAbsentReason 0..1CodeableConceptWhy the component result value is missing
Binding: Data Absent Reason (Extensible)
.... interpretation 0..*CodeableConceptHigh, low, normal, etc
Binding: Observation Interpretation Codes (Extensible)

.... referenceRange 0..*see referenceRangeProvides guide for interpretation of component result value


doco Documentation for this format icon

See the Extensions for this resource

UML Diagram (Legend)

Observation (DomainResource)A unique identifier assigned to this observationidentifier : Identifier [0..*]The reference to a FHIR ObservationDefinition resource that provides the definition that is adhered to in whole or in part by this Observation instanceinstantiates[x] : DataType [0..1] « canonical(ObservationDefinition)| Reference(ObservationDefinition) »A plan, proposal or order that is fulfilled in whole or in part by this event. For example, a MedicationRequest may require a patient to have laboratory test performed before it is dispensedbasedOn : Reference [0..*] « CarePlan|DeviceRequest| ImmunizationRecommendation|MedicationRequest|NutritionOrder| ServiceRequest »A larger event of which this particular Observation is a component or step. For example, an observation as part of a procedurepartOf : Reference [0..*] « MedicationAdministration| MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure|Immunization| ImagingStudy|GenomicStudy »The status of the result value (this element modifies the meaning of other elements)status : code [1..1] « null (Strength=Required)ObservationStatus! »A code that classifies the general type of observation being madecategory : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Preferred)ObservationCategoryCodes? »Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "name"code : CodeableConcept [1..1] « null (Strength=Example)LOINCCodes?? » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The patient, or group of patients, location, device, organization, procedure or practitioner this observation is about and into whose or what record the observation is placed. If the actual focus of the observation is different from the subject (or a sample of, part, or region of the subject), the `focus` element or the `code` itself specifies the actual focus of the observationsubject : Reference [0..1] « Patient|Group|Device|Location| Organization|Procedure|Practitioner|Medication|Substance| BiologicallyDerivedProduct|NutritionProduct »The actual focus of an observation when it is not the patient of record representing something or someone associated with the patient such as a spouse, parent, fetus, or donor. For example, fetus observations in a mother's record. The focus of an observation could also be an existing condition, an intervention, the subject's diet, another observation of the subject, or a body structure such as tumor or implanted device. An example use case would be using the Observation resource to capture whether the mother is trained to change her child's tracheostomy tube. In this example, the child is the patient of record and the mother is the focusfocus : Reference [0..*] « Any »The healthcare event (e.g. a patient and healthcare provider interaction) during which this observation is madeencounter : Reference [0..1] « Encounter »The time or time-period the observed value is asserted as being true. For biological subjects - e.g. human patients - this is usually called the "physiologically relevant time". This is usually either the time of the procedure or of specimen collection, but very often the source of the date/time is not known, only the date/time itselfeffective[x] : DataType [0..1] « dateTime|Period|Timing|instant »The date and time this version of the observation was made available to providers, typically after the results have been reviewed and verifiedissued : instant [0..1]Who was responsible for asserting the observed value as "true"performer : Reference [0..*] « Practitioner|PractitionerRole| Organization|CareTeam|Patient|RelatedPerson »The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple valuevalue[x] : DataType [0..1] « Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean| integer|Range|Ratio|SampledData|time|dateTime|Period| Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missingdataAbsentReason : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Extensible)DataAbsentReason+ » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normalinterpretation : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Extensible) ObservationInterpretationCodes+ »Comments about the observation or the resultsnote : Annotation [0..*]Indicates the site on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site)bodySite : CodeableConcept [0..1] « Codes describing anatomical locations. May include laterality. (Strength=Example)SNOMEDCTBodyStructures?? » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »Indicates the body structure on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site)bodyStructure : Reference [0..1] « BodyStructure » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »Indicates the mechanism used to perform the observationmethod : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Example)ObservationMethods?? »The specimen that was used when this observation was madespecimen : Reference [0..1] « Specimen|Group »A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the devicedevice : Reference [0..1] « Device|DeviceMetric »This observation is a group observation (e.g. a battery, a panel of tests, a set of vital sign measurements) that includes the target as a member of the grouphasMember : Reference [0..*] « Observation|QuestionnaireResponse| MolecularSequence »The target resource that represents a measurement from which this observation value is derived. For example, a calculated anion gap or a fetal measurement based on an ultrasound imagederivedFrom : Reference [0..*] « DocumentReference|ImagingStudy| ImagingSelection|QuestionnaireResponse|Observation| MolecularSequence|GenomicStudy »TriggeredByReference to the triggering observationobservation : Reference [1..1] « Observation »The type of trigger. Reflex | Repeat | Re-runtype : code [1..1] « null (Strength=Required)TriggeredBytype! »Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation(s) referencedreason : string [0..1]ReferenceRangeThe value of the low bound of the reference range. The low bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the low bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is <=2.3)low : Quantity(SimpleQuantity) [0..1] « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The value of the high bound of the reference range. The high bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the high bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is >= 2.3)high : Quantity(SimpleQuantity) [0..1] « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The value of the normal value of the reference rangenormalValue : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Extensible) ObservationReferenceRangeNorm...+ »Codes to indicate the what part of the targeted reference population it applies to. For example, the normal or therapeutic rangetype : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Preferred)ObservationReferenceRangeMean...? »Codes to indicate the target population this reference range applies to. For example, a reference range may be based on the normal population or a particular sex or race. Multiple `appliesTo` are interpreted as an "AND" of the target populations. For example, to represent a target population of African American females, both a code of female and a code for African American would be usedappliesTo : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Example) ObservationReferenceRangeAppl...?? »The age at which this reference range is applicable. This is a neonatal age (e.g. number of weeks at term) if the meaning says soage : Range [0..1]Text based reference range in an observation which may be used when a quantitative range is not appropriate for an observation. An example would be a reference value of "Negative" or a list or table of "normals"text : markdown [0..1] « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »ComponentDescribes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "code"code : CodeableConcept [1..1] « null (Strength=Example)LOINCCodes?? » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple valuevalue[x] : DataType [0..1] « Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean| integer|Range|Ratio|SampledData|time|dateTime|Period| Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) »Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.component.value[x] is missingdataAbsentReason : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Extensible)DataAbsentReason+ »A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normalinterpretation : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Extensible) ObservationInterpretationCodes+ »Identifies the observation(s) that triggered the performance of this observationtriggeredBy[0..*]Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range. Multiple reference ranges are interpreted as an "OR". In other words, to represent two distinct target populations, two `referenceRange` elements would be usedreferenceRange[0..*]Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended rangereferenceRange[0..*]Some observations have multiple component observations. These component observations are expressed as separate code value pairs that share the same attributes. Examples include systolic and diastolic component observations for blood pressure measurement and multiple component observations for genetics observationscomponent[0..*]

XML Template

<Observation xmlns="http://hl7.org/fhir"> doco
 <!-- from Resource: id, meta, implicitRules, and language -->
 <!-- from DomainResource: text, contained, extension, and modifierExtension -->
 <identifier><!-- 0..* Identifier Business Identifier for observation --></identifier>
 <instantiates[x]><!-- 0..1 canonical(ObservationDefinition)|Reference(
   ObservationDefinition) Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition --></instantiates[x]>
 <basedOn><!-- 0..* Reference(CarePlan|DeviceRequest|ImmunizationRecommendation|
   MedicationRequest|NutritionOrder|ServiceRequest) Fulfills plan, proposal or order --></basedOn>
 <triggeredBy>  <!-- 0..* Triggering observation(s) -->
  <observation><!-- 1..1 Reference(Observation) Triggering observation --></observation>
  <type value="[code]"/><!-- 1..1 reflex | repeat | re-run -->
  <reason value="[string]"/><!-- 0..1 Reason that the observation was triggered -->
 </triggeredBy>
 <partOf><!-- 0..* Reference(GenomicStudy|ImagingStudy|Immunization|
   MedicationAdministration|MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure) Part of referenced event --></partOf>
 <status value="[code]"/><!-- 1..1 registered | preliminary | final | amended + -->
 <category><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept Classification of  type of observation --></category>
 <code><!-- I 1..1 CodeableConcept Type of observation (code / type) --></code>
 <subject><!-- 0..1 Reference(BiologicallyDerivedProduct|Device|Group|Location|
   Medication|NutritionProduct|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|Procedure|
   Substance) Who and/or what the observation is about --></subject>
 <focus><!-- 0..* Reference(Any) What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record --></focus>
 <encounter><!-- 0..1 Reference(Encounter) Healthcare event during which this observation is made --></encounter>
 <effective[x]><!-- 0..1 dateTime|Period|Timing|instant Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation --></effective[x]>
 <issued value="[instant]"/><!-- 0..1 Date/Time this version was made available -->
 <performer><!-- 0..* Reference(CareTeam|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|
   PractitionerRole|RelatedPerson) Who is responsible for the observation --></performer>
 <value[x]><!-- I 0..1 Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean|integer|Range|Ratio|
   SampledData|time|dateTime|Period|Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) Actual result --></value[x]>
 <dataAbsentReason><!-- I 0..1 CodeableConcept Why the result value is missing --></dataAbsentReason>
 <interpretation><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept High, low, normal, etc --></interpretation>
 <note><!-- 0..* Annotation Comments about the observation --></note>
 <bodySite><!-- I 0..1 CodeableConcept Observed body part --></bodySite>
 <bodyStructure><!-- I 0..1 Reference(BodyStructure) Observed body structure --></bodyStructure>
 <method><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept How it was done --></method>
 <specimen><!-- 0..1 Reference(Group|Specimen) Specimen used for this observation --></specimen>
 <device><!-- 0..1 Reference(Device|DeviceMetric) A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device --></device>
 <referenceRange>  <!-- 0..* Provides guide for interpretation -->
  <low><!-- I 0..1 Quantity(SimpleQuantity) Low Range, if relevant --></low>
  <high><!-- I 0..1 Quantity(SimpleQuantity) High Range, if relevant --></high>
  <normalValue><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept Normal value, if relevant --></normalValue>
  <type><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept Reference range qualifier --></type>
  <appliesTo><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept Reference range population --></appliesTo>
  <age><!-- 0..1 Range Applicable age range, if relevant --></age>
  <text value="[markdown]"/><!-- I 0..1 Text based reference range in an observation -->
 </referenceRange>
 <hasMember><!-- 0..* Reference(MolecularSequence|Observation|
   QuestionnaireResponse) Related resource that belongs to the Observation group --></hasMember>
 <derivedFrom><!-- 0..* Reference(DocumentReference|GenomicStudy|ImagingSelection|
   ImagingStudy|MolecularSequence|Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) Related resource from which the observation is made --></derivedFrom>
 <component>  <!-- I 0..* Component results -->
  <code><!-- I 1..1 CodeableConcept Type of component observation (code / type) --></code>
  <value[x]><!-- 0..1 Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean|integer|Range|
    Ratio|SampledData|time|dateTime|Period|Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) Actual component result --></value[x]>
  <dataAbsentReason><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept Why the component result value is missing --></dataAbsentReason>
  <interpretation><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept High, low, normal, etc --></interpretation>
  <referenceRange><!-- 0..* Content as for Observation.referenceRange Provides guide for interpretation of component result value --></referenceRange>
 </component>
</Observation>

JSON Template

{doco
  "resourceType" : "Observation",
  // from Resource: id, meta, implicitRules, and language
  // from DomainResource: text, contained, extension, and modifierExtension
  "identifier" : [{ Identifier }], // Business Identifier for observation
  // instantiates[x]: Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition. One of these 2:
  "instantiatesCanonical" : "<canonical(ObservationDefinition)>",
  "instantiatesReference" : { Reference(ObservationDefinition) },
  "basedOn" : [{ Reference(CarePlan|DeviceRequest|ImmunizationRecommendation|
   MedicationRequest|NutritionOrder|ServiceRequest) }], // Fulfills plan, proposal or order
  "triggeredBy" : [{ // Triggering observation(s)
    "observation" : { Reference(Observation) }, // R!  Triggering observation
    "type" : "<code>", // R!  reflex | repeat | re-run
    "reason" : "<string>" // Reason that the observation was triggered
  }],
  "partOf" : [{ Reference(GenomicStudy|ImagingStudy|Immunization|
   MedicationAdministration|MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure) }], // Part of referenced event
  "status" : "<code>", // R!  registered | preliminary | final | amended +
  "category" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // Classification of  type of observation
  "code" : { CodeableConcept }, // I R!  Type of observation (code / type)
  "subject" : { Reference(BiologicallyDerivedProduct|Device|Group|Location|
   Medication|NutritionProduct|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|Procedure|
   Substance) }, // Who and/or what the observation is about
  "focus" : [{ Reference(Any) }], // What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record
  "encounter" : { Reference(Encounter) }, // Healthcare event during which this observation is made
  // effective[x]: Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation. One of these 4:
  "effectiveDateTime" : "<dateTime>",
  "effectivePeriod" : { Period },
  "effectiveTiming" : { Timing },
  "effectiveInstant" : "<instant>",
  "issued" : "<instant>", // Date/Time this version was made available
  "performer" : [{ Reference(CareTeam|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|
   PractitionerRole|RelatedPerson) }], // Who is responsible for the observation
  // value[x]: Actual result. One of these 13:
  "valueQuantity" : { Quantity },
  "valueCodeableConcept" : { CodeableConcept },
  "valueString" : "<string>",
  "valueBoolean" : <boolean>,
  "valueInteger" : <integer>,
  "valueRange" : { Range },
  "valueRatio" : { Ratio },
  "valueSampledData" : { SampledData },
  "valueTime" : "<time>",
  "valueDateTime" : "<dateTime>",
  "valuePeriod" : { Period },
  "valueAttachment" : { Attachment },
  "valueReference" : { Reference(MolecularSequence) },
  "dataAbsentReason" : { CodeableConcept }, // I Why the result value is missing
  "interpretation" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // High, low, normal, etc
  "note" : [{ Annotation }], // Comments about the observation
  "bodySite" : { CodeableConcept }, // I Observed body part
  "bodyStructure" : { Reference(BodyStructure) }, // I Observed body structure
  "method" : { CodeableConcept }, // How it was done
  "specimen" : { Reference(Group|Specimen) }, // Specimen used for this observation
  "device" : { Reference(Device|DeviceMetric) }, // A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device
  "referenceRange" : [{ // Provides guide for interpretation
    "low" : { Quantity(SimpleQuantity) }, // I Low Range, if relevant
    "high" : { Quantity(SimpleQuantity) }, // I High Range, if relevant
    "normalValue" : { CodeableConcept }, // Normal value, if relevant
    "type" : { CodeableConcept }, // Reference range qualifier
    "appliesTo" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // Reference range population
    "age" : { Range }, // Applicable age range, if relevant
    "text" : "<markdown>" // I Text based reference range in an observation
  }],
  "hasMember" : [{ Reference(MolecularSequence|Observation|
   QuestionnaireResponse) }], // Related resource that belongs to the Observation group
  "derivedFrom" : [{ Reference(DocumentReference|GenomicStudy|ImagingSelection|
   ImagingStudy|MolecularSequence|Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) }], // Related resource from which the observation is made
  "component" : [{ // I Component results
    "code" : { CodeableConcept }, // I R!  Type of component observation (code / type)
    // value[x]: Actual component result. One of these 13:
    "valueQuantity" : { Quantity },
    "valueCodeableConcept" : { CodeableConcept },
    "valueString" : "<string>",
    "valueBoolean" : <boolean>,
    "valueInteger" : <integer>,
    "valueRange" : { Range },
    "valueRatio" : { Ratio },
    "valueSampledData" : { SampledData },
    "valueTime" : "<time>",
    "valueDateTime" : "<dateTime>",
    "valuePeriod" : { Period },
    "valueAttachment" : { Attachment },
    "valueReference" : { Reference(MolecularSequence) },
    "dataAbsentReason" : { CodeableConcept }, // Why the component result value is missing
    "interpretation" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // High, low, normal, etc
    "referenceRange" : [{ Content as for Observation.referenceRange }] // Provides guide for interpretation of component result value
  }]
}

Turtle Template

@prefix fhir: <http://hl7.org/fhir/> .doco


[ a fhir:Observation;
  fhir:nodeRole fhir:treeRoot; # if this is the parser root

  # from Resource: .id, .meta, .implicitRules, and .language
  # from DomainResource: .text, .contained, .extension, and .modifierExtension
  fhir:identifier  ( [ Identifier ] ... ) ; # 0..* Business Identifier for observation
  # instantiates[x] : 0..1 Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition. One of these 2
    fhir:instantiates [  a fhir:canonical ; canonical(ObservationDefinition) ]
    fhir:instantiates [  a fhir:Reference ; Reference(ObservationDefinition) ]
  fhir:basedOn  ( [ Reference(CarePlan|DeviceRequest|ImmunizationRecommendation|MedicationRequest|
  NutritionOrder|ServiceRequest) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Fulfills plan, proposal or order
  fhir:triggeredBy ( [ # 0..* Triggering observation(s)
    fhir:observation [ Reference(Observation) ] ; # 1..1 Triggering observation
    fhir:type [ code ] ; # 1..1 reflex | repeat | re-run
    fhir:reason [ string ] ; # 0..1 Reason that the observation was triggered
  ] ... ) ;
  fhir:partOf  ( [ Reference(GenomicStudy|ImagingStudy|Immunization|MedicationAdministration|
  MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Part of referenced event
  fhir:status [ code ] ; # 1..1 registered | preliminary | final | amended +
  fhir:category  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* Classification of  type of observation
  fhir:code [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 1..1 I Type of observation (code / type)
  fhir:subject [ Reference(BiologicallyDerivedProduct|Device|Group|Location|Medication|NutritionProduct|
  Organization|Patient|Practitioner|Procedure|Substance) ] ; # 0..1 Who and/or what the observation is about
  fhir:focus  ( [ Reference(Any) ] ... ) ; # 0..* What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record
  fhir:encounter [ Reference(Encounter) ] ; # 0..1 Healthcare event during which this observation is made
  # effective[x] : 0..1 Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation. One of these 4
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:dateTime ; dateTime ]
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:Period ; Period ]
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:Timing ; Timing ]
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:instant ; instant ]
  fhir:issued [ instant ] ; # 0..1 Date/Time this version was made available
  fhir:performer  ( [ Reference(CareTeam|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|PractitionerRole|RelatedPerson) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Who is responsible for the observation
  # value[x] : 0..1 I Actual result. One of these 13
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Quantity ; Quantity ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:CodeableConcept ; CodeableConcept ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:string ; string ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:boolean ; boolean ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:integer ; integer ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Range ; Range ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Ratio ; Ratio ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:SampledData ; SampledData ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:time ; time ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:dateTime ; dateTime ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Period ; Period ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Attachment ; Attachment ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Reference ; Reference(MolecularSequence) ]
  fhir:dataAbsentReason [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 I Why the result value is missing
  fhir:interpretation  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* High, low, normal, etc
  fhir:note  ( [ Annotation ] ... ) ; # 0..* Comments about the observation
  fhir:bodySite [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 I Observed body part
  fhir:bodyStructure [ Reference(BodyStructure) ] ; # 0..1 I Observed body structure
  fhir:method [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 How it was done
  fhir:specimen [ Reference(Group|Specimen) ] ; # 0..1 Specimen used for this observation
  fhir:device [ Reference(Device|DeviceMetric) ] ; # 0..1 A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device
  fhir:referenceRange ( [ # 0..* Provides guide for interpretation
    fhir:low [ Quantity(SimpleQuantity) ] ; # 0..1 I Low Range, if relevant
    fhir:high [ Quantity(SimpleQuantity) ] ; # 0..1 I High Range, if relevant
    fhir:normalValue [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 Normal value, if relevant
    fhir:type [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 Reference range qualifier
    fhir:appliesTo  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* Reference range population
    fhir:age [ Range ] ; # 0..1 Applicable age range, if relevant
    fhir:text [ markdown ] ; # 0..1 I Text based reference range in an observation
  ] ... ) ;
  fhir:hasMember  ( [ Reference(MolecularSequence|Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Related resource that belongs to the Observation group
  fhir:derivedFrom  ( [ Reference(DocumentReference|GenomicStudy|ImagingSelection|ImagingStudy|MolecularSequence|
  Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Related resource from which the observation is made
  fhir:component ( [ # 0..* I Component results
    fhir:code [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 1..1 I Type of component observation (code / type)
    # value[x] : 0..1 Actual component result. One of these 13
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Quantity ; Quantity ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:CodeableConcept ; CodeableConcept ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:string ; string ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:boolean ; boolean ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:integer ; integer ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Range ; Range ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Ratio ; Ratio ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:SampledData ; SampledData ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:time ; time ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:dateTime ; dateTime ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Period ; Period ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Attachment ; Attachment ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Reference ; Reference(MolecularSequence) ]
    fhir:dataAbsentReason [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 Why the component result value is missing
    fhir:interpretation  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* High, low, normal, etc
    fhir:referenceRange  ( [ See Observation.referenceRange ] ... ) ; # 0..* Provides guide for interpretation of component result value
  ] ... ) ;
]

Changes from both R4 and R4B

Observation
Observation.instantiates[x]
  • Added Element
Observation.triggeredBy
  • Added Element
Observation.triggeredBy.observation
  • Added Mandatory Element
Observation.triggeredBy.type
  • Added Mandatory Element
Observation.triggeredBy.reason
  • Added Element
Observation.partOf
  • Type Reference: Added Target Type GenomicStudy
Observation.subject
  • Type Reference: Added Target Types Organization, Procedure, Practitioner, Medication, Substance, BiologicallyDerivedProduct, NutritionProduct
Observation.value[x]
  • Add Types Attachment, Reference(MolecularSequence)
Observation.bodyStructure
  • Added Element
Observation.specimen
  • Type Reference: Added Target Type Group
Observation.referenceRange.normalValue
  • Added Element
Observation.referenceRange.text
  • Type changed from string to markdown
Observation.derivedFrom
  • Type Reference: Added Target Types ImagingSelection, GenomicStudy
  • Type Reference: Removed Target Type Media
Observation.component.value[x]
  • Add Types Attachment, Reference(MolecularSequence)

See the Full Difference for further information

This analysis is available for R4 as XML or JSON and for R4B as XML or JSON.

See R4 <--> R5 Conversion Maps (status = See Conversions Summary.)

Structure

NameFlagsCard.TypeDescription & Constraintsdoco
.. Observation NDomainResourceMeasurements and simple assertions
+ Rule: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present
+ Rule: If Observation.component.code is the same as Observation.code, then Observation.value SHALL NOT be present (the Observation.component.value[x] holds the value).
+ Rule: bodyStructure SHALL only be present if Observation.bodySite is not present

Elements defined in Ancestors: id, meta, implicitRules, language, text, contained, extension, modifierExtension
... identifier Σ0..*IdentifierBusiness Identifier for observation

... instantiates[x] ΣTU0..1Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition
.... instantiatesCanonicalcanonical(ObservationDefinition)
.... instantiatesReferenceReference(ObservationDefinition)
... basedOn Σ0..*Reference(CarePlan | DeviceRequest | ImmunizationRecommendation | MedicationRequest | NutritionOrder | ServiceRequest)Fulfills plan, proposal or order

... triggeredBy TU0..*BackboneElementTriggering observation(s)

.... observation Σ1..1Reference(Observation)Triggering observation
.... type Σ1..1codereflex | repeat | re-run
Binding: triggered Bytype (Required)
.... reason 0..1stringReason that the observation was triggered
... partOf Σ0..*Reference(MedicationAdministration | MedicationDispense | MedicationStatement | Procedure | Immunization | ImagingStudy | GenomicStudy)Part of referenced event

... status ?!Σ1..1coderegistered | preliminary | final | amended +
Binding: Observation Status (Required)
... category 0..*CodeableConceptClassification of type of observation
Binding: Observation Category Codes (Preferred)

... code ΣC1..1CodeableConceptType of observation (code / type)
Binding: LOINC Codes (Example)
... subject Σ0..1Reference(Patient | Group | Device | Location | Organization | Procedure | Practitioner | Medication | Substance | BiologicallyDerivedProduct | NutritionProduct)Who and/or what the observation is about
... focus ΣTU0..*Reference(Any)What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record

... encounter Σ0..1Reference(Encounter)Healthcare event during which this observation is made
... effective[x] Σ0..1Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation
.... effectiveDateTimedateTime
.... effectivePeriodPeriod
.... effectiveTimingTiming
.... effectiveInstantinstant
... issued Σ0..1instantDate/Time this version was made available
... performer Σ0..*Reference(Practitioner | PractitionerRole | Organization | CareTeam | Patient | RelatedPerson)Who is responsible for the observation

... value[x] ΣC0..1Actual result
.... valueQuantityQuantity
.... valueCodeableConceptCodeableConcept
.... valueStringstring
.... valueBooleanboolean
.... valueIntegerinteger
.... valueRangeRange
.... valueRatioRatio
.... valueSampledDataSampledData
.... valueTimetime
.... valueDateTimedateTime
.... valuePeriodPeriod
.... valueAttachmentAttachment
.... valueReferenceReference(MolecularSequence)
... dataAbsentReason C0..1CodeableConceptWhy the result value is missing
Binding: Data Absent Reason (Extensible)
... interpretation 0..*CodeableConceptHigh, low, normal, etc
Binding: Observation Interpretation Codes (Extensible)

... note 0..*AnnotationComments about the observation

... bodySite C0..1CodeableConceptObserved body part
Binding: SNOMED CT Body Structures (Example)
... bodyStructure CTU0..1Reference(BodyStructure)Observed body structure
... method 0..1CodeableConceptHow it was done
Binding: Observation Methods (Example)
... specimen C0..1Reference(Specimen | Group)Specimen used for this observation
+ Rule: If Observation.specimen is a reference to Group, the group can only have specimens
... device 0..1Reference(Device | DeviceMetric)A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device
... referenceRange C0..*BackboneElementProvides guide for interpretation
+ Rule: Must have at least a low or a high or text

.... low C0..1SimpleQuantityLow Range, if relevant
.... high C0..1SimpleQuantityHigh Range, if relevant
.... normalValue TU0..1CodeableConceptNormal value, if relevant
Binding: Observation Reference Range Normal Value Codes (Extensible)
.... type TU0..1CodeableConceptReference range qualifier
Binding: Observation Reference Range Meaning Codes (Preferred)
.... appliesTo 0..*CodeableConceptReference range population
Binding: Observation Reference Range Applies To Codes (Example)

.... age 0..1RangeApplicable age range, if relevant
.... text C0..1markdownText based reference range in an observation
... hasMember Σ0..*Reference(Observation | QuestionnaireResponse | MolecularSequence)Related resource that belongs to the Observation group

... derivedFrom Σ0..*Reference(DocumentReference | ImagingStudy | ImagingSelection | QuestionnaireResponse | Observation | MolecularSequence | GenomicStudy)Related resource from which the observation is made

... component ΣC0..*BackboneElementComponent results

.... code ΣC1..1CodeableConceptType of component observation (code / type)
Binding: LOINC Codes (Example)
.... value[x] Σ0..1Actual component result
..... valueQuantityQuantity
..... valueCodeableConceptCodeableConcept
..... valueStringstring
..... valueBooleanboolean
..... valueIntegerinteger
..... valueRangeRange
..... valueRatioRatio
..... valueSampledDataSampledData
..... valueTimetime
..... valueDateTimedateTime
..... valuePeriodPeriod
..... valueAttachmentAttachment
..... valueReferenceReference(MolecularSequence)
.... dataAbsentReason 0..1CodeableConceptWhy the component result value is missing
Binding: Data Absent Reason (Extensible)
.... interpretation 0..*CodeableConceptHigh, low, normal, etc
Binding: Observation Interpretation Codes (Extensible)

.... referenceRange 0..*see referenceRangeProvides guide for interpretation of component result value


doco Documentation for this format icon

See the Extensions for this resource

UML Diagram (Legend)

Observation (DomainResource)A unique identifier assigned to this observationidentifier : Identifier [0..*]The reference to a FHIR ObservationDefinition resource that provides the definition that is adhered to in whole or in part by this Observation instanceinstantiates[x] : DataType [0..1] « canonical(ObservationDefinition)| Reference(ObservationDefinition) »A plan, proposal or order that is fulfilled in whole or in part by this event. For example, a MedicationRequest may require a patient to have laboratory test performed before it is dispensedbasedOn : Reference [0..*] « CarePlan|DeviceRequest| ImmunizationRecommendation|MedicationRequest|NutritionOrder| ServiceRequest »A larger event of which this particular Observation is a component or step. For example, an observation as part of a procedurepartOf : Reference [0..*] « MedicationAdministration| MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure|Immunization| ImagingStudy|GenomicStudy »The status of the result value (this element modifies the meaning of other elements)status : code [1..1] « null (Strength=Required)ObservationStatus! »A code that classifies the general type of observation being madecategory : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Preferred)ObservationCategoryCodes? »Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "name"code : CodeableConcept [1..1] « null (Strength=Example)LOINCCodes?? » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The patient, or group of patients, location, device, organization, procedure or practitioner this observation is about and into whose or what record the observation is placed. If the actual focus of the observation is different from the subject (or a sample of, part, or region of the subject), the `focus` element or the `code` itself specifies the actual focus of the observationsubject : Reference [0..1] « Patient|Group|Device|Location| Organization|Procedure|Practitioner|Medication|Substance| BiologicallyDerivedProduct|NutritionProduct »The actual focus of an observation when it is not the patient of record representing something or someone associated with the patient such as a spouse, parent, fetus, or donor. For example, fetus observations in a mother's record. The focus of an observation could also be an existing condition, an intervention, the subject's diet, another observation of the subject, or a body structure such as tumor or implanted device. An example use case would be using the Observation resource to capture whether the mother is trained to change her child's tracheostomy tube. In this example, the child is the patient of record and the mother is the focusfocus : Reference [0..*] « Any »The healthcare event (e.g. a patient and healthcare provider interaction) during which this observation is madeencounter : Reference [0..1] « Encounter »The time or time-period the observed value is asserted as being true. For biological subjects - e.g. human patients - this is usually called the "physiologically relevant time". This is usually either the time of the procedure or of specimen collection, but very often the source of the date/time is not known, only the date/time itselfeffective[x] : DataType [0..1] « dateTime|Period|Timing|instant »The date and time this version of the observation was made available to providers, typically after the results have been reviewed and verifiedissued : instant [0..1]Who was responsible for asserting the observed value as "true"performer : Reference [0..*] « Practitioner|PractitionerRole| Organization|CareTeam|Patient|RelatedPerson »The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple valuevalue[x] : DataType [0..1] « Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean| integer|Range|Ratio|SampledData|time|dateTime|Period| Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missingdataAbsentReason : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Extensible)DataAbsentReason+ » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normalinterpretation : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Extensible) ObservationInterpretationCodes+ »Comments about the observation or the resultsnote : Annotation [0..*]Indicates the site on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site)bodySite : CodeableConcept [0..1] « Codes describing anatomical locations. May include laterality. (Strength=Example)SNOMEDCTBodyStructures?? » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »Indicates the body structure on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site)bodyStructure : Reference [0..1] « BodyStructure » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »Indicates the mechanism used to perform the observationmethod : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Example)ObservationMethods?? »The specimen that was used when this observation was madespecimen : Reference [0..1] « Specimen|Group »A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the devicedevice : Reference [0..1] « Device|DeviceMetric »This observation is a group observation (e.g. a battery, a panel of tests, a set of vital sign measurements) that includes the target as a member of the grouphasMember : Reference [0..*] « Observation|QuestionnaireResponse| MolecularSequence »The target resource that represents a measurement from which this observation value is derived. For example, a calculated anion gap or a fetal measurement based on an ultrasound imagederivedFrom : Reference [0..*] « DocumentReference|ImagingStudy| ImagingSelection|QuestionnaireResponse|Observation| MolecularSequence|GenomicStudy »TriggeredByReference to the triggering observationobservation : Reference [1..1] « Observation »The type of trigger. Reflex | Repeat | Re-runtype : code [1..1] « null (Strength=Required)TriggeredBytype! »Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation(s) referencedreason : string [0..1]ReferenceRangeThe value of the low bound of the reference range. The low bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the low bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is <=2.3)low : Quantity(SimpleQuantity) [0..1] « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The value of the high bound of the reference range. The high bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the high bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is >= 2.3)high : Quantity(SimpleQuantity) [0..1] « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The value of the normal value of the reference rangenormalValue : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Extensible) ObservationReferenceRangeNorm...+ »Codes to indicate the what part of the targeted reference population it applies to. For example, the normal or therapeutic rangetype : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Preferred)ObservationReferenceRangeMean...? »Codes to indicate the target population this reference range applies to. For example, a reference range may be based on the normal population or a particular sex or race. Multiple `appliesTo` are interpreted as an "AND" of the target populations. For example, to represent a target population of African American females, both a code of female and a code for African American would be usedappliesTo : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Example) ObservationReferenceRangeAppl...?? »The age at which this reference range is applicable. This is a neonatal age (e.g. number of weeks at term) if the meaning says soage : Range [0..1]Text based reference range in an observation which may be used when a quantitative range is not appropriate for an observation. An example would be a reference value of "Negative" or a list or table of "normals"text : markdown [0..1] « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »ComponentDescribes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "code"code : CodeableConcept [1..1] « null (Strength=Example)LOINCCodes?? » « This element has or is affected by some invariantsC »The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple valuevalue[x] : DataType [0..1] « Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean| integer|Range|Ratio|SampledData|time|dateTime|Period| Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) »Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.component.value[x] is missingdataAbsentReason : CodeableConcept [0..1] « null (Strength=Extensible)DataAbsentReason+ »A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normalinterpretation : CodeableConcept [0..*] « null (Strength=Extensible) ObservationInterpretationCodes+ »Identifies the observation(s) that triggered the performance of this observationtriggeredBy[0..*]Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range. Multiple reference ranges are interpreted as an "OR". In other words, to represent two distinct target populations, two `referenceRange` elements would be usedreferenceRange[0..*]Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended rangereferenceRange[0..*]Some observations have multiple component observations. These component observations are expressed as separate code value pairs that share the same attributes. Examples include systolic and diastolic component observations for blood pressure measurement and multiple component observations for genetics observationscomponent[0..*]

XML Template

<Observation xmlns="http://hl7.org/fhir"> doco
 <!-- from Resource: id, meta, implicitRules, and language -->
 <!-- from DomainResource: text, contained, extension, and modifierExtension -->
 <identifier><!-- 0..* Identifier Business Identifier for observation --></identifier>
 <instantiates[x]><!-- 0..1 canonical(ObservationDefinition)|Reference(
   ObservationDefinition) Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition --></instantiates[x]>
 <basedOn><!-- 0..* Reference(CarePlan|DeviceRequest|ImmunizationRecommendation|
   MedicationRequest|NutritionOrder|ServiceRequest) Fulfills plan, proposal or order --></basedOn>
 <triggeredBy>  <!-- 0..* Triggering observation(s) -->
  <observation><!-- 1..1 Reference(Observation) Triggering observation --></observation>
  <type value="[code]"/><!-- 1..1 reflex | repeat | re-run -->
  <reason value="[string]"/><!-- 0..1 Reason that the observation was triggered -->
 </triggeredBy>
 <partOf><!-- 0..* Reference(GenomicStudy|ImagingStudy|Immunization|
   MedicationAdministration|MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure) Part of referenced event --></partOf>
 <status value="[code]"/><!-- 1..1 registered | preliminary | final | amended + -->
 <category><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept Classification of  type of observation --></category>
 <code><!-- I 1..1 CodeableConcept Type of observation (code / type) --></code>
 <subject><!-- 0..1 Reference(BiologicallyDerivedProduct|Device|Group|Location|
   Medication|NutritionProduct|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|Procedure|
   Substance) Who and/or what the observation is about --></subject>
 <focus><!-- 0..* Reference(Any) What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record --></focus>
 <encounter><!-- 0..1 Reference(Encounter) Healthcare event during which this observation is made --></encounter>
 <effective[x]><!-- 0..1 dateTime|Period|Timing|instant Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation --></effective[x]>
 <issued value="[instant]"/><!-- 0..1 Date/Time this version was made available -->
 <performer><!-- 0..* Reference(CareTeam|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|
   PractitionerRole|RelatedPerson) Who is responsible for the observation --></performer>
 <value[x]><!-- I 0..1 Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean|integer|Range|Ratio|
   SampledData|time|dateTime|Period|Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) Actual result --></value[x]>
 <dataAbsentReason><!-- I 0..1 CodeableConcept Why the result value is missing --></dataAbsentReason>
 <interpretation><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept High, low, normal, etc --></interpretation>
 <note><!-- 0..* Annotation Comments about the observation --></note>
 <bodySite><!-- I 0..1 CodeableConcept Observed body part --></bodySite>
 <bodyStructure><!-- I 0..1 Reference(BodyStructure) Observed body structure --></bodyStructure>
 <method><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept How it was done --></method>
 <specimen><!-- 0..1 Reference(Group|Specimen) Specimen used for this observation --></specimen>
 <device><!-- 0..1 Reference(Device|DeviceMetric) A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device --></device>
 <referenceRange>  <!-- 0..* Provides guide for interpretation -->
  <low><!-- I 0..1 Quantity(SimpleQuantity) Low Range, if relevant --></low>
  <high><!-- I 0..1 Quantity(SimpleQuantity) High Range, if relevant --></high>
  <normalValue><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept Normal value, if relevant --></normalValue>
  <type><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept Reference range qualifier --></type>
  <appliesTo><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept Reference range population --></appliesTo>
  <age><!-- 0..1 Range Applicable age range, if relevant --></age>
  <text value="[markdown]"/><!-- I 0..1 Text based reference range in an observation -->
 </referenceRange>
 <hasMember><!-- 0..* Reference(MolecularSequence|Observation|
   QuestionnaireResponse) Related resource that belongs to the Observation group --></hasMember>
 <derivedFrom><!-- 0..* Reference(DocumentReference|GenomicStudy|ImagingSelection|
   ImagingStudy|MolecularSequence|Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) Related resource from which the observation is made --></derivedFrom>
 <component>  <!-- I 0..* Component results -->
  <code><!-- I 1..1 CodeableConcept Type of component observation (code / type) --></code>
  <value[x]><!-- 0..1 Quantity|CodeableConcept|string|boolean|integer|Range|
    Ratio|SampledData|time|dateTime|Period|Attachment|Reference(MolecularSequence) Actual component result --></value[x]>
  <dataAbsentReason><!-- 0..1 CodeableConcept Why the component result value is missing --></dataAbsentReason>
  <interpretation><!-- 0..* CodeableConcept High, low, normal, etc --></interpretation>
  <referenceRange><!-- 0..* Content as for Observation.referenceRange Provides guide for interpretation of component result value --></referenceRange>
 </component>
</Observation>

JSON Template

{doco
  "resourceType" : "Observation",
  // from Resource: id, meta, implicitRules, and language
  // from DomainResource: text, contained, extension, and modifierExtension
  "identifier" : [{ Identifier }], // Business Identifier for observation
  // instantiates[x]: Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition. One of these 2:
  "instantiatesCanonical" : "<canonical(ObservationDefinition)>",
  "instantiatesReference" : { Reference(ObservationDefinition) },
  "basedOn" : [{ Reference(CarePlan|DeviceRequest|ImmunizationRecommendation|
   MedicationRequest|NutritionOrder|ServiceRequest) }], // Fulfills plan, proposal or order
  "triggeredBy" : [{ // Triggering observation(s)
    "observation" : { Reference(Observation) }, // R!  Triggering observation
    "type" : "<code>", // R!  reflex | repeat | re-run
    "reason" : "<string>" // Reason that the observation was triggered
  }],
  "partOf" : [{ Reference(GenomicStudy|ImagingStudy|Immunization|
   MedicationAdministration|MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure) }], // Part of referenced event
  "status" : "<code>", // R!  registered | preliminary | final | amended +
  "category" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // Classification of  type of observation
  "code" : { CodeableConcept }, // I R!  Type of observation (code / type)
  "subject" : { Reference(BiologicallyDerivedProduct|Device|Group|Location|
   Medication|NutritionProduct|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|Procedure|
   Substance) }, // Who and/or what the observation is about
  "focus" : [{ Reference(Any) }], // What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record
  "encounter" : { Reference(Encounter) }, // Healthcare event during which this observation is made
  // effective[x]: Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation. One of these 4:
  "effectiveDateTime" : "<dateTime>",
  "effectivePeriod" : { Period },
  "effectiveTiming" : { Timing },
  "effectiveInstant" : "<instant>",
  "issued" : "<instant>", // Date/Time this version was made available
  "performer" : [{ Reference(CareTeam|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|
   PractitionerRole|RelatedPerson) }], // Who is responsible for the observation
  // value[x]: Actual result. One of these 13:
  "valueQuantity" : { Quantity },
  "valueCodeableConcept" : { CodeableConcept },
  "valueString" : "<string>",
  "valueBoolean" : <boolean>,
  "valueInteger" : <integer>,
  "valueRange" : { Range },
  "valueRatio" : { Ratio },
  "valueSampledData" : { SampledData },
  "valueTime" : "<time>",
  "valueDateTime" : "<dateTime>",
  "valuePeriod" : { Period },
  "valueAttachment" : { Attachment },
  "valueReference" : { Reference(MolecularSequence) },
  "dataAbsentReason" : { CodeableConcept }, // I Why the result value is missing
  "interpretation" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // High, low, normal, etc
  "note" : [{ Annotation }], // Comments about the observation
  "bodySite" : { CodeableConcept }, // I Observed body part
  "bodyStructure" : { Reference(BodyStructure) }, // I Observed body structure
  "method" : { CodeableConcept }, // How it was done
  "specimen" : { Reference(Group|Specimen) }, // Specimen used for this observation
  "device" : { Reference(Device|DeviceMetric) }, // A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device
  "referenceRange" : [{ // Provides guide for interpretation
    "low" : { Quantity(SimpleQuantity) }, // I Low Range, if relevant
    "high" : { Quantity(SimpleQuantity) }, // I High Range, if relevant
    "normalValue" : { CodeableConcept }, // Normal value, if relevant
    "type" : { CodeableConcept }, // Reference range qualifier
    "appliesTo" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // Reference range population
    "age" : { Range }, // Applicable age range, if relevant
    "text" : "<markdown>" // I Text based reference range in an observation
  }],
  "hasMember" : [{ Reference(MolecularSequence|Observation|
   QuestionnaireResponse) }], // Related resource that belongs to the Observation group
  "derivedFrom" : [{ Reference(DocumentReference|GenomicStudy|ImagingSelection|
   ImagingStudy|MolecularSequence|Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) }], // Related resource from which the observation is made
  "component" : [{ // I Component results
    "code" : { CodeableConcept }, // I R!  Type of component observation (code / type)
    // value[x]: Actual component result. One of these 13:
    "valueQuantity" : { Quantity },
    "valueCodeableConcept" : { CodeableConcept },
    "valueString" : "<string>",
    "valueBoolean" : <boolean>,
    "valueInteger" : <integer>,
    "valueRange" : { Range },
    "valueRatio" : { Ratio },
    "valueSampledData" : { SampledData },
    "valueTime" : "<time>",
    "valueDateTime" : "<dateTime>",
    "valuePeriod" : { Period },
    "valueAttachment" : { Attachment },
    "valueReference" : { Reference(MolecularSequence) },
    "dataAbsentReason" : { CodeableConcept }, // Why the component result value is missing
    "interpretation" : [{ CodeableConcept }], // High, low, normal, etc
    "referenceRange" : [{ Content as for Observation.referenceRange }] // Provides guide for interpretation of component result value
  }]
}

Turtle Template

@prefix fhir: <http://hl7.org/fhir/> .doco


[ a fhir:Observation;
  fhir:nodeRole fhir:treeRoot; # if this is the parser root

  # from Resource: .id, .meta, .implicitRules, and .language
  # from DomainResource: .text, .contained, .extension, and .modifierExtension
  fhir:identifier  ( [ Identifier ] ... ) ; # 0..* Business Identifier for observation
  # instantiates[x] : 0..1 Instantiates FHIR ObservationDefinition. One of these 2
    fhir:instantiates [  a fhir:canonical ; canonical(ObservationDefinition) ]
    fhir:instantiates [  a fhir:Reference ; Reference(ObservationDefinition) ]
  fhir:basedOn  ( [ Reference(CarePlan|DeviceRequest|ImmunizationRecommendation|MedicationRequest|
  NutritionOrder|ServiceRequest) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Fulfills plan, proposal or order
  fhir:triggeredBy ( [ # 0..* Triggering observation(s)
    fhir:observation [ Reference(Observation) ] ; # 1..1 Triggering observation
    fhir:type [ code ] ; # 1..1 reflex | repeat | re-run
    fhir:reason [ string ] ; # 0..1 Reason that the observation was triggered
  ] ... ) ;
  fhir:partOf  ( [ Reference(GenomicStudy|ImagingStudy|Immunization|MedicationAdministration|
  MedicationDispense|MedicationStatement|Procedure) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Part of referenced event
  fhir:status [ code ] ; # 1..1 registered | preliminary | final | amended +
  fhir:category  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* Classification of  type of observation
  fhir:code [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 1..1 I Type of observation (code / type)
  fhir:subject [ Reference(BiologicallyDerivedProduct|Device|Group|Location|Medication|NutritionProduct|
  Organization|Patient|Practitioner|Procedure|Substance) ] ; # 0..1 Who and/or what the observation is about
  fhir:focus  ( [ Reference(Any) ] ... ) ; # 0..* What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record
  fhir:encounter [ Reference(Encounter) ] ; # 0..1 Healthcare event during which this observation is made
  # effective[x] : 0..1 Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation. One of these 4
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:dateTime ; dateTime ]
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:Period ; Period ]
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:Timing ; Timing ]
    fhir:effective [  a fhir:instant ; instant ]
  fhir:issued [ instant ] ; # 0..1 Date/Time this version was made available
  fhir:performer  ( [ Reference(CareTeam|Organization|Patient|Practitioner|PractitionerRole|RelatedPerson) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Who is responsible for the observation
  # value[x] : 0..1 I Actual result. One of these 13
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Quantity ; Quantity ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:CodeableConcept ; CodeableConcept ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:string ; string ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:boolean ; boolean ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:integer ; integer ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Range ; Range ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Ratio ; Ratio ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:SampledData ; SampledData ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:time ; time ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:dateTime ; dateTime ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Period ; Period ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Attachment ; Attachment ]
    fhir:value [  a fhir:Reference ; Reference(MolecularSequence) ]
  fhir:dataAbsentReason [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 I Why the result value is missing
  fhir:interpretation  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* High, low, normal, etc
  fhir:note  ( [ Annotation ] ... ) ; # 0..* Comments about the observation
  fhir:bodySite [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 I Observed body part
  fhir:bodyStructure [ Reference(BodyStructure) ] ; # 0..1 I Observed body structure
  fhir:method [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 How it was done
  fhir:specimen [ Reference(Group|Specimen) ] ; # 0..1 Specimen used for this observation
  fhir:device [ Reference(Device|DeviceMetric) ] ; # 0..1 A reference to the device that generates the measurements or the device settings for the device
  fhir:referenceRange ( [ # 0..* Provides guide for interpretation
    fhir:low [ Quantity(SimpleQuantity) ] ; # 0..1 I Low Range, if relevant
    fhir:high [ Quantity(SimpleQuantity) ] ; # 0..1 I High Range, if relevant
    fhir:normalValue [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 Normal value, if relevant
    fhir:type [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 Reference range qualifier
    fhir:appliesTo  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* Reference range population
    fhir:age [ Range ] ; # 0..1 Applicable age range, if relevant
    fhir:text [ markdown ] ; # 0..1 I Text based reference range in an observation
  ] ... ) ;
  fhir:hasMember  ( [ Reference(MolecularSequence|Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Related resource that belongs to the Observation group
  fhir:derivedFrom  ( [ Reference(DocumentReference|GenomicStudy|ImagingSelection|ImagingStudy|MolecularSequence|
  Observation|QuestionnaireResponse) ] ... ) ; # 0..* Related resource from which the observation is made
  fhir:component ( [ # 0..* I Component results
    fhir:code [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 1..1 I Type of component observation (code / type)
    # value[x] : 0..1 Actual component result. One of these 13
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Quantity ; Quantity ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:CodeableConcept ; CodeableConcept ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:string ; string ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:boolean ; boolean ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:integer ; integer ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Range ; Range ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Ratio ; Ratio ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:SampledData ; SampledData ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:time ; time ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:dateTime ; dateTime ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Period ; Period ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Attachment ; Attachment ]
      fhir:value [  a fhir:Reference ; Reference(MolecularSequence) ]
    fhir:dataAbsentReason [ CodeableConcept ] ; # 0..1 Why the component result value is missing
    fhir:interpretation  ( [ CodeableConcept ] ... ) ; # 0..* High, low, normal, etc
    fhir:referenceRange  ( [ See Observation.referenceRange ] ... ) ; # 0..* Provides guide for interpretation of component result value
  ] ... ) ;
]

Changes from both R4 and R4B

Observation
Observation.instantiates[x]
  • Added Element
Observation.triggeredBy
  • Added Element
Observation.triggeredBy.observation
  • Added Mandatory Element
Observation.triggeredBy.type
  • Added Mandatory Element
Observation.triggeredBy.reason
  • Added Element
Observation.partOf
  • Type Reference: Added Target Type GenomicStudy
Observation.subject
  • Type Reference: Added Target Types Organization, Procedure, Practitioner, Medication, Substance, BiologicallyDerivedProduct, NutritionProduct
Observation.value[x]
  • Add Types Attachment, Reference(MolecularSequence)
Observation.bodyStructure
  • Added Element
Observation.specimen
  • Type Reference: Added Target Type Group
Observation.referenceRange.normalValue
  • Added Element
Observation.referenceRange.text
  • Type changed from string to markdown
Observation.derivedFrom
  • Type Reference: Added Target Types ImagingSelection, GenomicStudy
  • Type Reference: Removed Target Type Media
Observation.component.value[x]
  • Add Types Attachment, Reference(MolecularSequence)

See the Full Difference for further information

This analysis is available for R4 as XML or JSON and for R4B as XML or JSON.

See R4 <--> R5 Conversion Maps (status = See Conversions Summary.)

 

Additional definitions: Master Definition XML + JSON, XML Schema/Schematron + JSON Schema, ShEx (for Turtle) + see the extensions, the spreadsheet version & the dependency analysis

PathValueSetTypeDocumentation
Observation.triggeredBy.type TriggeredBytype Required

Codes providing the type of triggeredBy observation.

Observation.status ObservationStatus Required

Codes providing the status of an observation.

Observation.category ObservationCategoryCodes Preferred

Observation Category codes.

Observation.code LOINCCodes (a valid code from LOINC icon)Example

This value set includes all LOINC codes

Observation.dataAbsentReason DataAbsentReason Extensible

Used to specify why the normally expected content of the data element is missing.

Observation.interpretation ObservationInterpretationCodes (a valid code from ObservationInterpretation icon)Extensible

A categorical assessment, providing a rough qualitative interpretation of the observation value, such as “normal”/ “abnormal”,”low” / “high”, “better” / “worse”, “susceptible” / “resistant”, “expected”/ “not expected”. The value set is intended to be for ANY use where coded representation of an interpretation is needed.

Notes:

This is being communicated in v2.x in OBX-8 (Observation Interpretation), in v3 in ObservationInterpretation (CWE) in R1 (Representative Realm) and in FHIR in Observation.interpretation. Historically these values come from the laboratory domain, and these codes are extensively used. The value set binding is extensible, so codes outside the value set that are needed for interpretation concepts (i.e. particular meanings) that are not included in the value set can be used, and these new codes may also be added to the value set and published in a future version.

Observation.bodySite SNOMEDCTBodyStructures Example

This value set includes all codes from SNOMED CT icon where concept is-a 442083009 (Anatomical or acquired body site (body structure)).

Observation.method ObservationMethods Example

Observation Method codes from SNOMED CT icon where concept is-a 272394005 (Technique (qualifier value)) or is-a 129264002 (Action (qualifier value)) or is-a 386053000 (Evaluation procedure(procedure))

Observation.referenceRange.normalValue ObservationReferenceRangeNormalValueCodes (a valid code from ObservationreferenceRangeNormalValue)Extensible

Codes that describe the normal value in the reference range, such as “Negative” or “Absent”

Observation.referenceRange.type ObservationReferenceRangeMeaningCodes Preferred

This value set defines a set of codes that can be used to indicate the meaning/use of a reference range for a particular target population.

Observation.referenceRange.appliesTo ObservationReferenceRangeAppliesToCodes Example

This value set defines a set of codes that can be used to indicate the particular target population the reference range applies to.

Observation.component.code LOINCCodes (a valid code from LOINC icon)Example

This value set includes all LOINC codes

Observation.component.dataAbsentReason DataAbsentReason Extensible

Used to specify why the normally expected content of the data element is missing.

Observation.component.interpretation ObservationInterpretationCodes (a valid code from ObservationInterpretation icon)Extensible

A categorical assessment, providing a rough qualitative interpretation of the observation value, such as “normal”/ “abnormal”,”low” / “high”, “better” / “worse”, “susceptible” / “resistant”, “expected”/ “not expected”. The value set is intended to be for ANY use where coded representation of an interpretation is needed.

Notes:

This is being communicated in v2.x in OBX-8 (Observation Interpretation), in v3 in ObservationInterpretation (CWE) in R1 (Representative Realm) and in FHIR in Observation.interpretation. Historically these values come from the laboratory domain, and these codes are extensively used. The value set binding is extensible, so codes outside the value set that are needed for interpretation concepts (i.e. particular meanings) that are not included in the value set can be used, and these new codes may also be added to the value set and published in a future version.

UniqueKeyLevelLocationDescriptionExpression
img obs-3Rule Observation.referenceRangeMust have at least a low or a high or textlow.exists() or high.exists() or text.exists()
img obs-6Rule (base)dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not presentdataAbsentReason.empty() or value.empty()
img obs-7Rule (base)If Observation.component.code is the same as Observation.code, then Observation.value SHALL NOT be present (the Observation.component.value[x] holds the value).value.empty() or component.code.where(coding.intersect(%resource.code.coding).exists()).empty()
img obs-8Rule (base)bodyStructure SHALL only be present if Observation.bodySite is not presentbodySite.exists() implies bodyStructure.empty()
img obs-9Rule Observation.specimenIf Observation.specimen is a reference to Group, the group can only have specimens(reference.resolve().exists() and reference.resolve() is Group) implies reference.resolve().member.entity.resolve().all($this is Specimen)

At its simplest, a resource instance can consist of only a code and a value, and status flag. The relevance of other properties will vary based on the type of observation. Profiles are created to provide guidance on capturing certain types of observations for a given use case. The Observation resource focuses on the level of detail captured by most systems. However, for a given use case there may be additional constraints and additional information relevant in certain circumstances. As with other resources, extensions can be used to introduce this additional complexity.

Typically, an observation is made about the subject - a patient, or group of patients, location, or device - and the distinction between the subject and what is directly measured for an observation is specified in the observation code itself ( e.g., "Blood Glucose") and does not need to be represented separately. However, three attributes may be used for representing the focus of the observation if it is not the subject itself. The specimen and bodySite elements are used to represent measurements taken on subject samples or anatomic and morphological locations, and focus represents specific aspect of the subject that are the point of attention such as another observation or a device implanted in a patient.

Many observations need to be grouped together in some fashion to document critical relationships for interpretation of the observations. The methods to do so primarily are through DiagnosticReport using DiagnosticReport.result and Observation using Observation.component, Observation.hasMember, and Observation.derivedFrom. See the Diagnostics Module for guidance related to Microbiology reporting and relevant relationships necessary to support reflex, follow-up, and add-on orders.

Note that Composition may also be used to organize observations and diagnostic reports, but that is only for purpose of readability, not to record critical relationships for interpretations. See DiagnosticReport.composition and Composition for further considerations for that separate purpose.

DiagnosticReport relates directly to an order (ServiceRequest). The DiagnosticReport.code names the panel and serves as the grouping element, which is traditionally referred to as a "panel" or "battery" by laboratories. The DiagnosticReport.result element references the individual observations. Several examples demonstrate observation grouping using DiagnosticReport as the grouping structure.

Observation.component is used for any supporting result that cannot reasonably be interpreted and used outside the scope of the Observation it is a component of. Component observations may make up the separate and individual parts of the observation or may provide qualifying information to Observation.code and may only be able to be understood in relation to the Observation.code (for example, see the $stats operation). Therefore all code-value and component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation. Components should only be used when there is only one method, one observation, one performer, one device, and one time. Some use cases for using this structure include:

  1. Observations that are commonly produced and interpreted together. For example, systolic and diastolic blood pressure are represented as a single Blood pressure panel.
  2. Assessment tool results that are commonly produced and interpreted together. For example, a newborn Apgar score that is a single Observation with five components.
  3. Representing multiple answers to a question (relationship and boundaries between Observation and Questionnaire/QuestionnaireResponse). For example, reporting the types of alcohol consumed by a patient

On the other hand, any observations that are clinically relevant outside the context of being a component of another observation should be represented by separate Observation resources. For example a Body Mass Index (BMI) Observation should not contain components for height and weight because they are clinically relevant observations on their own and should be represented by separate Observation resources. See the section below on how to relate independent Observations.

Observation.hasMember and Observation.derivedFrom and the core extensions: Observation-sequelTo icon and Observation-replaces icon are used for any supporting result that can be interpreted and used on its own and has one or more different values for method, observation, performer, device, time, and/or error conditions. Two common use cases for using this structure are:

  1. For grouping related observations such as for a "panel" or "battery". In this case the Observation.code represents the "panel" code, typically Observation.value[x] is not present, and the set of member Observations are listed in Observation.hasMember. This structure permits nested grouping when used with DiagnosticReport (e.g. complex micro isolate and sensitivities report) as described in the Diagnostics Module
  2. When linking to other Observations from which an Observation is derived. In this case both Observation.code and Observation.value[x] are present, and the linked observations are listed in Observation.derivedFrom. An example of this would be a Body Mass Index (BMI) Observation where the height and weight measurements are referenced.

When a result value is represented as a predefined concept using a code, valueCodeableConcept is used. This element is bound to a value set comprised of a standard nomenclature such as SNOMED CT or a source system ("local") coded result values.

Results may be coded in multiple value sets based on different code systems and these may be mapped using the ConceptMap resource and/or given as additional codings directly in the element as shown in the example below.

For example the LOINC 43304-5 Chlamydia trachomatis rRNA [Presence] in Unspecified specimen by Probe and target amplification method is typically associated with coded presence/absence concepts. Using the coded value for 'negative' with a standard code translation, valueCodeableConcept would be:


		"valueCodeableConcept": {
			"coding": [
				{
					"system": "http://snomed.info/sct",
					"code": "260385009",
					"display": "Negative"
				}, {
					"system": "https://acme.lab/resultcodes",
					"code": "NEG",
					"display": "Negative"
				}
			],
			"text": "Negative for Chlamydia Trachomatis rRNA"
		}

		

When the data element is usually coded or the type associated with the code element defines a coded value, use valueCodeableConcept even if there is no appropriate code and only free text is available. For example using text only, the valueCodeableConcept element would be:


		"valueCodeableConcept": {
			"text": "uncoded free text result"
		}

				

When a coded answer list includes a concept code for "other" and there is a free text description of the concept, the valueCodeableConcept.text element should be used to capture the full meaning of the source. In the example below, the answer code "Other" is provided in the valueCodeableConcept element and the text value supplied value in the CodeableConcept.text element.

	{
		"resourceType": "Observation",
		... snip ...
		"code": {
			"coding": [
				{
					"system": "http://loinc.org",
					"code": "74076-1",
					"display": "Medication or substance involved"
				}
			]
		},
		.. snip ...
		"valueCodeableConcept": {
			"coding": [
				{
					"system": "http://loinc.org",
					"code": " LA20343-2",
					"display": "Other substance: PLEASE SPECIFY"
				}
			],
			"text": "Other: Blue pills I found under my couch"
		}
		.. snip ...
	}
		   

A recurring issue for many observation events, regardless of the particular pattern, is determining how to populate observation.code and observation.value. While this is typically straight-forward for laboratory observations, it can get blurry for other types of observations, such as findings and disorders, family history observations, etc. This discussion focuses on the way in which the coded representation of such statements is expressed using the Observation.code and Observation.value elements.

There are two distinct facets that are central to a FHIR Observations:

  • The action taken to make the finding and/or the property about which the property was observed. For example: measurement of blood hemoglobin.
  • The result of the observation. For example: 14 g/dl.

Several different ways of representing the same information exist using different combinations of the Observation.code and Observation.value. Unconstrained use of the alternatives presents a major challenge for computation of semantic equivalence and for safe interpretation of observations originating from different applications and users. The following four patterns could reasonably represent the same case. Considering that the Observation resource needs to support many use cases, the appropriate place to define the specific pattern is expected to be done through profiles and implementation guides as specified by the jurisdictions and/or organizations implementing FHIR:

  1. Observation.code represents the nature of the observation and the Observation.value a code represents the non-numeric result value. These are two distinct facets that are central to a FHIR Observations. For example:
    • code=[Examination]
    • value=[Abdomen tender]
  2. Observation.code is nearly identical to 1) above, but the level of granularity is shifted from the value to code. For example:
    • code=[Abdominal examination]
    • value=[Tenderness]
  3. The Observation.code is also expressed in a way that does not specify the observation action but indicates a statement about findings reduced to a single name (or term), as in the above item. In this example, the Observation.value is present and "qualifies" the finding typically confirming or refuting it. For example:
    • code=[Abdominal tenderness]
    • value=[found/true]
  4. in this example the Observation.code is expressed in a way that does not specify the observation action but indicates a statement about findings reduced to a single name (or term). In this particular example in that context, the Observation.value is omitted. For example:
    • code=[Abdominal tenderness]
    • value element is omitted
  1. Recommended rules for case 1 and 2 patterns:
    • The Observation.code is preferably a LOINC icon concept code.
      • If a SNOMED CT icon concept code is used, the expression SHOULD represent a 363787002 (Observable entity(Observable entity)) or 386053000 (Evaluation procedure(evaluation procedure))
    • For non-numeric values, the Observation.value is preferably a SNOMED CT concept code.
  2. Recommended rules for case 3 pattern:
    • The Observation.code is preferably a LOINC or SNOMED CT concept code.
      • If a SNOMED CT concept code is used, the expression SHOULD represent a 404684003 (Clinical finding (finding)) , 413350009 (Finding with explicit context(finding)), or 272379006 (Event(event)).
    • The Observation.value is represented by either
  3. Recommended rules for case 4 pattern:
    • The Observation.code is preferably a SNOMED CT concept code where the concept is-a 404684003 (Clinical finding (finding)) , 413350009 (Finding with explicit context(finding)), or 272379006 (Event(event)).
    • The Observation.value is omitted. The default interpretation is the concept (single code or expression) represented in Observation.code is present in the patient. An Observation.dataAbsentReason value of 'clinical-finding' SHOULD be used to indicate why the expected value is missing.
  4. SHOULD NOT use the Assertion pattern as described in HL7 Version 3 Implementation Guide: TermInfo - Using SNOMED CT in CDA R2 Models, Release 1 icon. ( The code is 'ASSERTION' and the value is a SNOMED CT concept or expression )

The following list provides guidance on using codes or other observations to provide additional context that may alter how an observation is interpreted.:

  1. If possible, use the most specific code you can

    e.g.:

    	{
    	"resourceType": "Observation",
    	... snip ...
    	"code": {
    		"coding": [
    			{
    				"system": "http://loinc.org",
    				"code": "6689-4",
    				"display": "Glucose [Mass/​volume] in Blood --2 hours post meal"
    			}
    		]
    	},
    	... snip ...
    	}
    			
  2. Alternatively, use additional codes in Observation.code as described above.

    e.g.: Observation.code = coding-1: 59408-5 Oxygen saturation in Arterial blood by Pulse oximetry, coding-2: 20564-1 Oxygen saturation in Blood

    	{
    	"resourceType": "Observation",
    	... snip ...
    	"code": {
    		"coding": [
    			{
    				"system": "http://loinc.org",
    				"code": "59408-5",
    				"display": "Oxygen saturation in Arterial blood by Pulse oximetry"
    			},
    			{
    				"system": "http://loinc.org",
    				"code": "20564-1",
    				"display": "Oxygen saturation in Blood"
    			}
    		]
    	},
    	... snip ...
    	}
    			
  3. As described above, observations are typically grouped together to provide additional information needed for correctly understanding and interpreting the observation. As an alternative to grouping observations, extensions may be used to provide references to other observations needed for understanding and interpreting an observation.

Note to Implementers: We are seeking input from the implementer community in evaluating existing Observation Extensions for this purpose

Feedback here icon.

  • The element, Observation.value[x], has a variable name depending on the type as follows:
    • valueQuantity
    • valueCodeableConcept
    • valueString
    • valueBoolean
    • valueInteger
    • valueRange
    • valueRatio
    • valueSampledData
    • valueTime
    • valueDateTime
    • valuePeriod
    • valueAttachment

  • See above section on Using codes for result values
  • The Attachment data type is used to represent an observation result value if the actual value is a binary file such as an image. If the observation result value is derived from the binary file (for example 'X' detected and here is the the proof in this image), the binary file may be directly represented using DocumentReference and referenced in the Observation with derivedFrom. Images that are referenced as part of a report should be represented with DiagnosticReport.media or, if the entire report is in a binary format such as pdf, with DiagnosticReport.presentedForm.
  • The Boolean data type is rarely used for value[x] because most observations result values are never truly Boolean due to exceptional values such as "unknown", therefore they should use the CodeableConcept data type instead and select codes from http://terminology.hl7.org/ValueSet/v2-0136 icon (these "yes/no" concepts can be mapped to the display name "true/false" or other mutually exclusive terms that may be needed")
  • The special values "E" (error), "L" (below detection limit) and "U" (above detection limit) can be used are in the SampledData data type. However, when using valueQuantity in an observation for above and below detection limit values, valueQuantity should be used by stating the limit along with the comparator. In addition, when there is an error the dataAbsentReason element should be used with the appropriate value ('error' or 'NaN'). For example if the value was below the lower limit of detection of <2.0 mmol/L the valueQuantity would be:
    		"valueQuantity": {
    			"value": 2.0,
    			"comparator": "<",
    			"unit": "mmol/l",
    			"system": "http://unitsofmeasure.org",
    			"code": "mmol/L"
    		}
    	
    If the value was "NaN" (i.e. an error) the valueCodeableConcept element would be absent and dataAbsentReason element would be:
    		"dataAbsentReason": {
    			"coding": [
    				{
    					"system": "http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/data-absent-reason",
    					"code": "NaN",
    					"display": "Not a Number"
    				}
    			]
    		}
    		
  • Because there are multiple types allowed for the value element, multiple value search parameters are defined. There is no standard parameter for searching values of type Ratio

The effectiveDateTime or effectivePeriod is the time that the observation is most relevant as an observation of the subject. For a biological subject (e.g. a human patient), this is the physiologically relevant time of the observation. In the case of an observation using a specimen, this represents the start and end of the specimen collection (e.g. 24-hour Urine Sodium), but if the collection time is sufficiently short, this is reported as a point in time value (e.g. normal venipuncture). In the case of an observation obtained directly from a subject (e.g. BP, Chest X-ray), this is the start and end time of the observation process, which again, is often reported as a single point in time.

Most common observations will only have one generic reference range. Reference ranges may be useful for laboratory tests and other measures like systolic blood pressure but will have little relevance for something like "pregnancy status". Systems MAY choose to restrict to only supplying the relevant reference range based on knowledge about the patient (e.g. specific to the patient's age, gender, weight and other factors), but this might not be possible or appropriate. Whenever more than one reference range is supplied, the differences between them SHOULD be provided in the reference range and/or age properties.

If a measurement or test could not be completed (for example if the specimen is unsatisfactory or the provider cancelled the order), then the status value should be updated to "cancelled" and the specific details given - preferably as coded values in the dataAbsentReason or valueCodeableConcept element. Additional information may be provided in the `note` element as well. The specimen reject example demonstrates this using a coded value for unsatisfactory specimen in dataAbsentReason.

Genomic reporting makes heavy use of the DiagnosticReport and Observation resources to represent structured, computable genomic data. An implementation guide describing how to represent genetic results can be found here icon.

Beyond the structured, computable data available in DiagnosticReport and Observation, metadata about the analysis performed is captured in the GenomicStudy resource. GenomicStudy aims at delineating relevant information of a genomic study. A genomic study might comprise one or more analyses, each serving a specific purpose. These analyses may vary in method (e.g., karyotyping, CNV, or SNV detection), performer, software, devices used, or regions targeted.

When referencing genomic analysis from an Observation, the partOf attribute MAY be used to reference the GenomicStudy that led to this observation being made. Another option is that derivedFrom MAY be used to reference a DocumentReference when the observation was derived from the data in the file, even with that file was produced as part of a GenomicStudy output. Also, derivedFrom MAY be used to reference the GenomicStudy where the data was produced.

The lastn query operation meets the common need for searching for the most recent or "last known" Observations for a subject. Examples where this query could be used:

  • Fetch the last 5 temperatures for a patient to view trends
  • Get the most recent laboratory results for patient
  • Fetch the last 3 results for all vitals for a patient

See the Last N Observations Query section in the Observation resource operations page for more information and examples

The stats operation performs a set of statistical calculations on a set of clinical measurements such as a blood pressure as stored on the server. This operation is focused on Observation resources with valueQuantity elements that have UCUM unit codes. Examples where this operation could be used:

  • Get the average, min, max and count of a series of BP measurements for a patient
  • Determine 20th or 80th percentile on a set of measurements over a time period
See the Observation Statistics section in the Observation resource operations page for more information and examples

Search parameters for this resource. See also the full list of search parameters for this resource, and check the Extensions registry for search parameters on extensions related to this resource. The common parameters also apply. See Searching for more information about searching in REST, messaging, and services.

NameTypeDescriptionExpressionIn Common
based-onreferenceReference to the service request.Observation.basedOn
(CarePlan, MedicationRequest, NutritionOrder, DeviceRequest, ServiceRequest, ImmunizationRecommendation)
categorytokenThe classification of the type of observationObservation.category
codetokenThe code of the observation typeObservation.code22 Resources
code-value-conceptcompositeCode and coded value parameter pairOn Observation:
  code: code
  value-concept: value.ofType(CodeableConcept)
code-value-datecompositeCode and date/time value parameter pairOn Observation:
  code: code
  value-date: value.ofType(dateTime) | value.ofType(Period)
code-value-quantitycompositeCode and quantity value parameter pairOn Observation:
  code: code
  value-quantity: value.ofType(Quantity)
code-value-stringcompositeCode and string value parameter pairOn Observation:
  code: code
  value-string: value.ofType(string)
combo-codetokenThe code of the observation type or component typeObservation.code | Observation.component.code
combo-code-value-conceptcompositeCode and coded value parameter pair, including in componentsOn Observation | Observation.component:
  combo-code: code
  combo-value-concept: value.ofType(CodeableConcept)
combo-code-value-quantitycompositeCode and quantity value parameter pair, including in componentsOn Observation | Observation.component:
  combo-code: code
  combo-value-quantity: value.ofType(Quantity)
combo-data-absent-reasontokenThe reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] or Observation.component.value[x] is missing.Observation.dataAbsentReason | Observation.component.dataAbsentReason
combo-value-concepttokenThe value or component value of the observation, if the value is a CodeableConceptObservation.value.ofType(CodeableConcept) | Observation.component.value.ofType(CodeableConcept)
combo-value-quantityquantityThe value or component value of the observation, if the value is a Quantity, or a SampledData (just search on the bounds of the values in sampled data)Observation.value.ofType(Quantity) | Observation.value.ofType(SampledData) | Observation.component.value.ofType(Quantity) | Observation.component.value.ofType(SampledData)
component-codetokenThe component code of the observation typeObservation.component.code
component-code-value-conceptcompositeComponent code and component coded value parameter pairOn Observation.component:
  component-code: code
  component-value-concept: value.ofType(CodeableConcept)
component-code-value-quantitycompositeComponent code and component quantity value parameter pairOn Observation.component:
  component-code: code
  component-value-quantity: value.ofType(Quantity)
component-data-absent-reasontokenThe reason why the expected value in the element Observation.component.value[x] is missing.Observation.component.dataAbsentReason
component-value-canonicaluriURL contained in valueCanonical.Observation.component.value.ofType(canonical)
component-value-concepttokenThe value of the component observation, if the value is a CodeableConceptObservation.component.value.ofType(CodeableConcept)
component-value-quantityquantityThe value of the component observation, if the value is a Quantity, or a SampledData (just search on the bounds of the values in sampled data)Observation.component.value.ofType(Quantity) | Observation.component.value.ofType(SampledData)
component-value-referencereferenceReference contained in valueReference.Observation.component.value.ofType(Reference)
(MolecularSequence)
data-absent-reasontokenThe reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missing.Observation.dataAbsentReason
datedateClinically relevant time/time-period for observationObservation.effective.ofType(dateTime) | Observation.effective.ofType(Period) | Observation.effective.ofType(Timing) | Observation.effective.ofType(instant)26 Resources
derived-fromreferenceRelated measurements the observation is made fromObservation.derivedFrom
(GenomicStudy, Observation, ImagingStudy, MolecularSequence, ImagingSelection, QuestionnaireResponse, DocumentReference)
devicereferenceThe Device that generated the observation data.Observation.device
(Device, DeviceMetric)
encounterreferenceEncounter related to the observationObservation.encounter
(Encounter)
29 Resources
focus TUreferenceThe focus of an observation when the focus is not the patient of record.Observation.focus
(Any)
has-memberreferenceRelated resource that belongs to the Observation groupObservation.hasMember
(Observation, MolecularSequence, QuestionnaireResponse)
identifiertokenThe unique id for a particular observationObservation.identifier65 Resources
methodtokenThe method used for the observationObservation.method
part-ofreferencePart of referenced eventObservation.partOf
(GenomicStudy, Immunization, MedicationDispense, MedicationAdministration, Procedure, ImagingStudy, MedicationStatement)
patientreferenceThe subject that the observation is about (if patient)Observation.subject.where(resolve() is Patient)
(Patient)
66 Resources
performerreferenceWho performed the observationObservation.performer
(Practitioner, Organization, CareTeam, Patient, PractitionerRole, RelatedPerson)
specimenreferenceSpecimen used for this observationObservation.specimen
(Specimen, Group)
statustokenThe status of the observationObservation.status
subjectreferenceThe subject that the observation is aboutObservation.subject
(Practitioner, Group, Organization, BiologicallyDerivedProduct, NutritionProduct, Device, Medication, Patient, Procedure, Substance, Location)
value-canonicaluriURL contained in valueCanonical.Observation.value.ofType(canonical)
value-concepttokenThe value of the observation, if the value is a CodeableConceptObservation.value.ofType(CodeableConcept)
value-datedateThe value of the observation, if the value is a date or period of timeObservation.value.ofType(dateTime) | Observation.value.ofType(Period)
value-markdownstringThe value of the observation, if the value is a string, and also searches in CodeableConcept.textObservation.value.ofType(markdown) | Observation.value.ofType(CodeableConcept).text
value-quantityquantityThe value of the observation, if the value is a Quantity, or a SampledData (just search on the bounds of the values in sampled data)Observation.value.ofType(Quantity) | Observation.value.ofType(SampledData)
value-referencereferenceReference contained in valueReference.Observation.value.ofType(Reference)
(MolecularSequence)