Graviditetsmappen FHIR model
0.1.0 - ci-build Denmark flag

Graviditetsmappen FHIR model, published by Example Publisher. This guide is not an authorized publication; it is the continuous build for version 0.1.0 built by the FHIR (HL7® FHIR® Standard) CI Build. This version is based on the current content of https://github.com/trifork/gm-fhir-ig/ and changes regularly. See the Directory of published versions

Resource Profile: GMModelElement - Detailed Descriptions

Draft as of 2025-08-25

Definitions for the GMModelElement resource profile.

Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be foundhere

0. Observation
Definition

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

ShortMeasurements and simple assertions
Comments

Used for simple observations such as device measurements, laboratory atomic results, vital signs, height, weight, smoking status, comments, etc. Other resources are used to provide context for observations such as laboratory reports, etc.

Control0..*
Is Modifierfalse
Summaryfalse
Alternate NamesVital Signs, Measurement, Results, Tests
Invariantsdom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources (contained.contained.empty())
dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource (contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference | %resource.descendants().as(canonical) | %resource.descendants().as(uri) | %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty())
dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated (contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty())
dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label (contained.meta.security.empty())
dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management (text.`div`.exists())
obs-6: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present (dataAbsentReason.empty() or value.empty())
obs-7: If Observation.code is the same as an Observation.component.code then the value element associated with the code SHALL NOT be present (value.empty() or component.code.where(coding.intersect(%resource.code.coding).exists()).empty())
obs-6: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present (dataAbsentReason.empty() or value.empty())
obs-7: If Observation.code is the same as an Observation.component.code then the value element associated with the code SHALL NOT be present (value.empty() or component.code.where(coding.intersect(%resource.code.coding).exists()).empty())
2. Observation.id
Definition

The logical id of the resource, as used in the URL for the resource. Once assigned, this value never changes.

ShortLogical id of this artifact
Comments

The only time that a resource does not have an id is when it is being submitted to the server using a create operation.

Control10..1
Typeidstring
Is Modifierfalse
Summarytrue
4. Observation.meta
Definition

The metadata about the resource. This is content that is maintained by the infrastructure. Changes to the content might not always be associated with version changes to the resource.

ShortMetadata about the resource
Control0..01
TypeMeta
Is Modifierfalse
Summarytrue
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
6. Observation.implicitRules
Definition

A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc.

ShortA set of rules under which this content was created
Comments

Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc.

Control0..01
Typeuri
Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because the implicit rules may provide additional knowledge about the resource that modifies it's meaning or interpretation
Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
Summarytrue
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
8. Observation.language
Definition

The base language in which the resource is written.

ShortLanguage of the resource content
Comments

Language is provided to support indexing and accessibility (typically, services such as text to speech use the language tag). The html language tag in the narrative applies to the narrative. The language tag on the resource may be used to specify the language of other presentations generated from the data in the resource. Not all the content has to be in the base language. The Resource.language should not be assumed to apply to the narrative automatically. If a language is specified, it should it also be specified on the div element in the html (see rules in HTML5 for information about the relationship between xml:lang and the html lang attribute).

Control0..01
BindingThe codes SHOULD be taken from CommonLanguageshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/languages
(preferred to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/languages)

A human language.

Additional BindingsPurpose
AllLanguagesMax Binding
Typecode
Is Modifierfalse
Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
Summaryfalse
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
10. Observation.text
Definition

A human-readable narrative that contains a summary of the resource and can be used to represent the content of the resource to a human. The narrative need not encode all the structured data, but is required to contain sufficient detail to make it "clinically safe" for a human to just read the narrative. Resource definitions may define what content should be represented in the narrative to ensure clinical safety.

ShortText summary of the resource, for human interpretation
Comments

Contained resources do not have narrative. Resources that are not contained SHOULD have a narrative. In some cases, a resource may only have text with little or no additional discrete data (as long as all minOccurs=1 elements are satisfied). This may be necessary for data from legacy systems where information is captured as a "text blob" or where text is additionally entered raw or narrated and encoded information is added later.

Control0..01
TypeNarrative
Is Modifierfalse
Summaryfalse
Alternate Namesnarrative, html, xhtml, display
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
12. Observation.contained
Definition

These resources do not have an independent existence apart from the resource that contains them - they cannot be identified independently, and nor can they have their own independent transaction scope.

ShortContained, inline Resources
Comments

This should never be done when the content can be identified properly, as once identification is lost, it is extremely difficult (and context dependent) to restore it again. Contained resources may have profiles and tags In their meta elements, but SHALL NOT have security labels.

Control0..0*
TypeResource
Is Modifierfalse
Summaryfalse
Alternate Namesinline resources, anonymous resources, contained resources
14. Observation.extension
Definition

An Extension


May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

ShortExtensionAdditional content defined by implementations
Comments

There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

Control0..*
TypeExtension
Is Modifierfalse
Summaryfalse
Alternate Namesextensions, user content
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
  • value @ url
  • 16. Observation.extension:GMModelElementReference
    Slice NameGMModelElementReference
    Definition

    Component that references another model element

    ShortModel element reference
    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Model element reference) (Extension Type: Reference(Resource)referenced)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    18. Observation.modifierExtension
    Definition

    An Extension


    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource and that modifies the understanding of the element that contains it and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer is allowed to define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

    Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

    ShortExtensionExtensions that cannot be ignored
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..0*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the resource that contains them
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

    Alternate Namesextensions, user content
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    20. Observation.identifier
    Definition

    A unique identifier assigned to this observation.

    ShortBusiness Identifier for observation
    NoteThis is a business identifier, not a resource identifier (see discussion)
    Control0..0*
    TypeIdentifier
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Allows observations to be distinguished and referenced.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    22. Observation.basedOn
    Definition

    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 dispensed.

    ShortFulfills plan, proposal or order
    Control0..0*
    TypeReference(CarePlan, DeviceRequest, ImmunizationRecommendation, MedicationRequest, NutritionOrder, ServiceRequest)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Allows tracing of authorization for the event and tracking whether proposals/recommendations were acted upon.

    Alternate NamesFulfills
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    24. Observation.partOf
    Definition

    A larger event of which this particular Observation is a component or step. For example, an observation as part of a procedure.

    ShortPart of referenced event
    Comments

    To link an Observation to an Encounter use encounter. See the Notes below for guidance on referencing another Observation.

    Control0..0*
    TypeReference(MedicationAdministration, MedicationDispense, MedicationStatement, Procedure, Immunization, ImagingStudy)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summarytrue
    Alternate NamesContainer
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    26. Observation.status
    Definition

    The status of the result value.

    Shortregistered | preliminary | final | amended +
    Comments

    This element is labeled as a modifier because the status contains codes that mark the resource as not currently valid.

    Control1..1
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from ObservationStatushttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-status|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-status|4.0.1)

    Codes providing the status of an observation.

    Typecode
    Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because it is a status element that contains status entered-in-error which means that the resource should not be treated as valid
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Need to track the status of individual results. Some results are finalized before the whole report is finalized.

    Pattern Valuefinal
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    28. Observation.category
    Definition

    A code that classifies the general type of observation being made.

    ShortClassification of type of observation
    Comments

    In addition to the required category valueset, this element allows various categorization schemes based on the owner’s definition of the category and effectively multiple categories can be used at once. The level of granularity is defined by the category concepts in the value set.

    Control0..0*
    BindingThe codes SHOULD be taken from ObservationCategoryCodeshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-category
    (preferred to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-category)

    Codes for high level observation categories.

    TypeCodeableConcept
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Used for filtering what observations are retrieved and displayed.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    30. Observation.code
    Definition

    Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "name".

    ShortType of observation (code / type)
    Comments

    All code-value and, if present, component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation.

    Control1..1
    BindingFor example codes, see LOINCCodeshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-codes
    (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-codes)

    Codes identifying names of simple observations.

    TypeCodeableConcept
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation.

    Alternate NamesName
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    32. Observation.code.id
    Definition

    Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

    ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
    Control0..01
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
    Summaryfalse
    34. Observation.code.extension
    Definition

    An Extension


    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

    ShortExtensionAdditional content defined by implementations
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..0*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summaryfalse
    Alternate Namesextensions, user content
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.code.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
    • value @ url
    • 36. Observation.code.coding
      Definition

      A reference to a code defined by a terminology system.

      ShortCode defined by a terminology system
      Comments

      Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true.

      Control10..1*
      TypeCoding
      Is Modifierfalse
      Summarytrue
      Requirements

      Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems.

      Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
      38. Observation.code.coding.id
      Definition

      Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

      ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
      Control0..01
      Typestring
      Is Modifierfalse
      XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
      Summaryfalse
      40. Observation.code.coding.extension
      Definition

      An Extension


      May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

      ShortExtensionAdditional content defined by implementations
      Comments

      There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

      Control0..0*
      TypeExtension
      Is Modifierfalse
      Summaryfalse
      Alternate Namesextensions, user content
      Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
      ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
      SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.code.coding.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
      • value @ url
      • 42. Observation.code.coding.system
        Definition

        The identification of the code system that defines the meaning of the symbol in the code.

        ShortIdentity of the terminology system
        Comments

        The URI may be an OID (urn:oid:...) or a UUID (urn:uuid:...). OIDs and UUIDs SHALL be references to the HL7 OID registry. Otherwise, the URI should come from HL7's list of FHIR defined special URIs or it should reference to some definition that establishes the system clearly and unambiguously.

        Control10..1
        Typeuri
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        Need to be unambiguous about the source of the definition of the symbol.

        Pattern Valuehttp://snomed.info/sct|http://snomed.info/sct/554471000005108
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        44. Observation.code.coding.version
        Definition

        The version of the code system which was used when choosing this code. Note that a well-maintained code system does not need the version reported, because the meaning of codes is consistent across versions. However this cannot consistently be assured, and when the meaning is not guaranteed to be consistent, the version SHOULD be exchanged.

        ShortVersion of the system - if relevant
        Comments

        Where the terminology does not clearly define what string should be used to identify code system versions, the recommendation is to use the date (expressed in FHIR date format) on which that version was officially published as the version date.

        NoteThis is a business version Id, not a resource version Id (see discussion)
        Control0..01
        Typestring
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        46. Observation.code.coding.code
        Definition

        A symbol in syntax defined by the system. The symbol may be a predefined code or an expression in a syntax defined by the coding system (e.g. post-coordination).

        ShortSymbol in syntax defined by the system
        Control10..1
        Typecode
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        Need to refer to a particular code in the system.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        48. Observation.code.coding.userSelected
        Definition

        Indicates that this coding was chosen by a user directly - e.g. off a pick list of available items (codes or displays).

        ShortIf this coding was chosen directly by the user
        Comments

        Amongst a set of alternatives, a directly chosen code is the most appropriate starting point for new translations. There is some ambiguity about what exactly 'directly chosen' implies, and trading partner agreement may be needed to clarify the use of this element and its consequences more completely.

        Control0..01
        Typeboolean
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        This has been identified as a clinical safety criterium - that this exact system/code pair was chosen explicitly, rather than inferred by the system based on some rules or language processing.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        50. Observation.code.text
        Definition

        A human language representation of the concept as seen/selected/uttered by the user who entered the data and/or which represents the intended meaning of the user.

        ShortPlain text representation of the concept
        Comments

        Very often the text is the same as a displayName of one of the codings.

        Control0..01
        Typestring
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        The codes from the terminologies do not always capture the correct meaning with all the nuances of the human using them, or sometimes there is no appropriate code at all. In these cases, the text is used to capture the full meaning of the source.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        52. Observation.subject
        Definition

        The patient, or group of patients, location, or device this observation is about and into whose 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 observation.

        ShortWho and/or what the observation is about
        Comments

        One would expect this element to be a cardinality of 1..1. The only circumstance in which the subject can be missing is when the observation is made by a device that does not know the patient. In this case, the observation SHALL be matched to a patient through some context/channel matching technique, and at this point, the observation should be updated.

        Control10..1
        TypeReference(Danish Core Patient Profile, Patient, Group, Device, Location)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        Observations have no value if you don't know who or what they're about.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        54. Observation.focus
        Definition

        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 focus.

        ShortWhat the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record
        Comments

        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 using this element. Use specimen if a reference to a specimen is required. If a code is required instead of a resource use either bodysite for bodysites or the standard extension focusCode.

        Control0..0*
        TypeReference(Resource)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summarytrue
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        56. Observation.encounter
        Definition

        The healthcare event (e.g. a patient and healthcare provider interaction) during which this observation is made.

        ShortHealthcare event during which this observation is made
        Comments

        This will typically be the encounter the event occurred within, but some events may be initiated prior to or after the official completion of an encounter but still be tied to the context of the encounter (e.g. pre-admission laboratory tests).

        Control0..01
        TypeReference(Encounter)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        For some observations it may be important to know the link between an observation and a particular encounter.

        Alternate NamesContext
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        58. Observation.effective[x]
        Definition

        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 itself.

        ShortClinically relevant time/time-period for observation
        Comments

        At least a date should be present unless this observation is a historical report. For recording imprecise or "fuzzy" times (For example, a blood glucose measurement taken "after breakfast") use the Timing datatype which allow the measurement to be tied to regular life events.

        Control10..1
        TypedateTime, Period, Timing, instant
        [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        Knowing when an observation was deemed true is important to its relevance as well as determining trends.

        Alternate NamesOccurrence
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        60. Observation.issued
        Definition

        The date and time this version of the observation was made available to providers, typically after the results have been reviewed and verified.

        ShortDate/Time this version was made available
        Comments

        For Observations that don’t require review and verification, it may be the same as the lastUpdated time of the resource itself. For Observations that do require review and verification for certain updates, it might not be the same as the lastUpdated time of the resource itself due to a non-clinically significant update that doesn’t require the new version to be reviewed and verified again.

        Control0..01
        Typeinstant
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        62. Observation.performer
        Definition

        Who was responsible for asserting the observed value as "true".

        ShortWho is responsible for the observation
        Control0..0*
        TypeReference(Practitioner, PractitionerRole, Organization, CareTeam, Patient, RelatedPerson)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        May give a degree of confidence in the observation and also indicates where follow-up questions should be directed.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        64. Observation.value[x]
        Definition

        The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value.

        ShortActual result
        Comments

        An observation may have; 1) a single value here, 2) both a value and a set of related or component values, or 3) only a set of related or component values. If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below.

        Control0..01
        This element is affected by the following invariants: obs-7
        TypeChoice of: Quantity, CodeableConcept, string, boolean, integer, Range, Ratio, SampledData, time, dateTime, Period
        Is Modifierfalse
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        66. Observation.dataAbsentReason
        Definition

        Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missing.

        ShortWhy the result is missing
        Comments

        Null or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "specimen unsatisfactory".

        The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Note that an observation may only be reported if there are values to report. For example differential cell counts values may be reported only when > 0. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for null or exceptional values.

        Control0..01
        This element is affected by the following invariants: obs-6
        BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from DataAbsentReasonhttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/data-absent-reason
        (extensible to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/data-absent-reason)

        Codes specifying why the result (Observation.value[x]) is missing.

        TypeCodeableConcept
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Requirements

        For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        68. Observation.interpretation
        Definition

        A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal.

        ShortHigh, low, normal, etc.
        Comments

        Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result.

        Control0..0*
        BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from ObservationInterpretationCodeshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-interpretation
        (extensible to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-interpretation)

        Codes identifying interpretations of observations.

        TypeCodeableConcept
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Requirements

        For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result.

        Alternate NamesAbnormal Flag
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        70. Observation.note
        Definition

        Comments about the observation or the results.

        ShortComments about the observation
        Comments

        May include general statements about the observation, or statements about significant, unexpected or unreliable results values, or information about its source when relevant to its interpretation.

        Control0..0*
        TypeAnnotation
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Requirements

        Need to be able to provide free text additional information.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        72. Observation.bodySite
        Definition

        Indicates the site on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site).

        ShortObserved body part
        Comments

        Only used if not implicit in code found in Observation.code. In many systems, this may be represented as a related observation instead of an inline component.

        If the use case requires BodySite to be handled as a separate resource (e.g. to identify and track separately) then use the standard extension bodySite.

        Control0..01
        BindingFor example codes, see SNOMEDCTBodyStructureshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/body-site
        (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/body-site)

        Codes describing anatomical locations. May include laterality.

        TypeCodeableConcept
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        74. Observation.method
        Definition

        Indicates the mechanism used to perform the observation.

        ShortHow it was done
        Comments

        Only used if not implicit in code for Observation.code.

        Control0..01
        BindingFor example codes, see ObservationMethodshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-methods
        (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-methods)

        Methods for simple observations.

        TypeCodeableConcept
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Requirements

        In some cases, method can impact results and is thus used for determining whether results can be compared or determining significance of results.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        76. Observation.specimen
        Definition

        The specimen that was used when this observation was made.

        ShortSpecimen used for this observation
        Comments

        Should only be used if not implicit in code found in Observation.code. Observations are not made on specimens themselves; they are made on a subject, but in many cases by the means of a specimen. Note that although specimens are often involved, they are not always tracked and reported explicitly. Also note that observation resources may be used in contexts that track the specimen explicitly (e.g. Diagnostic Report).

        Control0..01
        TypeReference(Specimen)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        78. Observation.device
        Definition

        The device used to generate the observation data.

        Short(Measurement) Device
        Comments

        Note that this is not meant to represent a device involved in the transmission of the result, e.g., a gateway. Such devices may be documented using the Provenance resource where relevant.

        Control0..01
        TypeReference(Device, DeviceMetric)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        80. Observation.referenceRange
        Definition

        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 used.

        ShortProvides guide for interpretation
        Comments

        Most observations only have one generic reference range. 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.

        Control0..0*
        TypeBackboneElement
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Requirements

        Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        obs-3: Must have at least a low or a high or text (low.exists() or high.exists() or text.exists())
        obs-3: Must have at least a low or a high or text (low.exists() or high.exists() or text.exists())
        83. Observation.hasMember
        Definition

        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 group.

        ShortRelated resource that belongs to the Observation group
        Comments

        When using this element, an observation will typically have either a value or a set of related resources, although both may be present in some cases. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below. Note that a system may calculate results from QuestionnaireResponse into a final score and represent the score as an Observation.


        When using this element, an observation will typically have either a value or a set of related resources, although both may be present in some cases. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below. Note that a system may calculate results from QuestionnaireResponse into a final score and represent the score as an Observation.

        Control0..0*
        TypeReference(Observation, QuestionnaireResponse, MolecularSequence)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summarytrue
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        85. Observation.derivedFrom
        Definition

        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 image.

        ShortRelated measurements the observation is made from
        Comments

        All the reference choices that are listed in this element can represent clinical observations and other measurements that may be the source for a derived value. The most common reference will be another Observation. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below.

        Control0..0*
        TypeReference(DocumentReference, ImagingStudy, Media, QuestionnaireResponse, Observation, MolecularSequence)
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summarytrue
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))

        Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be foundhere

        0. Observation
        2. Observation.extension
        SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
        • value @ url
        • 4. Observation.extension:GMModelElementReference
          Slice NameGMModelElementReference
          Control0..*
          TypeExtension(Model element reference) (Extension Type: Reference(Resource)referenced)
          6. Observation.focus
          Control0..0
          8. Observation.value[x]
          Control0..0
          10. Observation.component
          12. Observation.component.id
          Control0..0
          14. Observation.component.extension
          Control0..0
          16. Observation.component.modifierExtension
          Control0..0
          18. Observation.component.code
          20. Observation.component.code.id
          Control0..0
          22. Observation.component.code.extension
          Control0..0
          24. Observation.component.code.coding
          Control1..1
          26. Observation.component.code.coding.id
          Control0..0
          28. Observation.component.code.coding.extension
          Control0..0
          30. Observation.component.code.coding.system
          Control1..?
          Pattern Valuehttp://snomed.info/sct|http://snomed.info/sct/554471000005108
          32. Observation.component.code.coding.version
          NoteThis is a business version Id, not a resource version Id (see discussion)
          Control0..0
          34. Observation.component.code.coding.code
          Control1..?
          36. Observation.component.code.coding.userSelected
          Control0..0
          38. Observation.component.code.text
          Control0..0
          40. Observation.component.value[x]
          Control1..?
          [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
          42. Observation.component.dataAbsentReason
          Control0..0
          44. Observation.component.interpretation
          Control0..0
          46. Observation.component.referenceRange
          Control0..0

          Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be foundhere

          0. Observation
          Definition

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

          ShortMeasurements and simple assertions
          Comments

          Used for simple observations such as device measurements, laboratory atomic results, vital signs, height, weight, smoking status, comments, etc. Other resources are used to provide context for observations such as laboratory reports, etc.

          Control0..*
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summaryfalse
          Alternate NamesVital Signs, Measurement, Results, Tests
          Invariantsdom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources (contained.contained.empty())
          dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource (contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference | %resource.descendants().as(canonical) | %resource.descendants().as(uri) | %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty())
          dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated (contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty())
          dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label (contained.meta.security.empty())
          dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management (text.`div`.exists())
          obs-6: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present (dataAbsentReason.empty() or value.empty())
          obs-7: If Observation.code is the same as an Observation.component.code then the value element associated with the code SHALL NOT be present (value.empty() or component.code.where(coding.intersect(%resource.code.coding).exists()).empty())
          2. Observation.id
          Definition

          The logical id of the resource, as used in the URL for the resource. Once assigned, this value never changes.

          ShortLogical id of this artifact
          Comments

          The only time that a resource does not have an id is when it is being submitted to the server using a create operation.

          Control1..1
          Typeid
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summarytrue
          4. Observation.meta
          Definition

          The metadata about the resource. This is content that is maintained by the infrastructure. Changes to the content might not always be associated with version changes to the resource.

          ShortMetadata about the resource
          Control0..0
          TypeMeta
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summarytrue
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          6. Observation.implicitRules
          Definition

          A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc.

          ShortA set of rules under which this content was created
          Comments

          Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc.

          Control0..0
          Typeuri
          Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because the implicit rules may provide additional knowledge about the resource that modifies it's meaning or interpretation
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          8. Observation.language
          Definition

          The base language in which the resource is written.

          ShortLanguage of the resource content
          Comments

          Language is provided to support indexing and accessibility (typically, services such as text to speech use the language tag). The html language tag in the narrative applies to the narrative. The language tag on the resource may be used to specify the language of other presentations generated from the data in the resource. Not all the content has to be in the base language. The Resource.language should not be assumed to apply to the narrative automatically. If a language is specified, it should it also be specified on the div element in the html (see rules in HTML5 for information about the relationship between xml:lang and the html lang attribute).

          Control0..0
          BindingThe codes SHOULD be taken from CommonLanguages
          (preferred to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/languages)

          A human language.

          Additional BindingsPurpose
          AllLanguagesMax Binding
          Typecode
          Is Modifierfalse
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summaryfalse
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          10. Observation.text
          Definition

          A human-readable narrative that contains a summary of the resource and can be used to represent the content of the resource to a human. The narrative need not encode all the structured data, but is required to contain sufficient detail to make it "clinically safe" for a human to just read the narrative. Resource definitions may define what content should be represented in the narrative to ensure clinical safety.

          ShortText summary of the resource, for human interpretation
          Comments

          Contained resources do not have narrative. Resources that are not contained SHOULD have a narrative. In some cases, a resource may only have text with little or no additional discrete data (as long as all minOccurs=1 elements are satisfied). This may be necessary for data from legacy systems where information is captured as a "text blob" or where text is additionally entered raw or narrated and encoded information is added later.

          Control0..0
          TypeNarrative
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summaryfalse
          Alternate Namesnarrative, html, xhtml, display
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          12. Observation.contained
          Definition

          These resources do not have an independent existence apart from the resource that contains them - they cannot be identified independently, and nor can they have their own independent transaction scope.

          ShortContained, inline Resources
          Comments

          This should never be done when the content can be identified properly, as once identification is lost, it is extremely difficult (and context dependent) to restore it again. Contained resources may have profiles and tags In their meta elements, but SHALL NOT have security labels.

          Control0..0
          TypeResource
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summaryfalse
          Alternate Namesinline resources, anonymous resources, contained resources
          14. Observation.extension
          Definition

          An Extension

          ShortExtension
          Control0..*
          TypeExtension
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summaryfalse
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
          SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
          • value @ url
          • 16. Observation.extension:GMModelElementReference
            Slice NameGMModelElementReference
            Definition

            Component that references another model element

            ShortModel element reference
            Control0..*
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            TypeExtension(Model element reference) (Extension Type: Reference(Resource)referenced)
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summaryfalse
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
            18. Observation.modifierExtension
            Definition

            An Extension

            ShortExtension
            Control0..0
            TypeExtension
            Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the resource that contains them
            Summaryfalse
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
            20. Observation.identifier
            Definition

            A unique identifier assigned to this observation.

            ShortBusiness Identifier for observation
            NoteThis is a business identifier, not a resource identifier (see discussion)
            Control0..0
            TypeIdentifier
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summarytrue
            Requirements

            Allows observations to be distinguished and referenced.

            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            22. Observation.basedOn
            Definition

            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 dispensed.

            ShortFulfills plan, proposal or order
            Control0..0
            TypeReference(CarePlan, DeviceRequest, ImmunizationRecommendation, MedicationRequest, NutritionOrder, ServiceRequest)
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summarytrue
            Requirements

            Allows tracing of authorization for the event and tracking whether proposals/recommendations were acted upon.

            Alternate NamesFulfills
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            24. Observation.partOf
            Definition

            A larger event of which this particular Observation is a component or step. For example, an observation as part of a procedure.

            ShortPart of referenced event
            Comments

            To link an Observation to an Encounter use encounter. See the Notes below for guidance on referencing another Observation.

            Control0..0
            TypeReference(MedicationAdministration, MedicationDispense, MedicationStatement, Procedure, Immunization, ImagingStudy)
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summarytrue
            Alternate NamesContainer
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            26. Observation.status
            Definition

            The status of the result value.

            Shortregistered | preliminary | final | amended +
            Comments

            This element is labeled as a modifier because the status contains codes that mark the resource as not currently valid.

            Control1..1
            BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from ObservationStatus
            (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-status|4.0.1)

            Codes providing the status of an observation.

            Typecode
            Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because it is a status element that contains status entered-in-error which means that the resource should not be treated as valid
            Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
            Summarytrue
            Requirements

            Need to track the status of individual results. Some results are finalized before the whole report is finalized.

            Pattern Valuefinal
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            28. Observation.category
            Definition

            A code that classifies the general type of observation being made.

            ShortClassification of type of observation
            Comments

            In addition to the required category valueset, this element allows various categorization schemes based on the owner’s definition of the category and effectively multiple categories can be used at once. The level of granularity is defined by the category concepts in the value set.

            Control0..0
            BindingThe codes SHOULD be taken from ObservationCategoryCodes
            (preferred to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-category)

            Codes for high level observation categories.

            TypeCodeableConcept
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summaryfalse
            Requirements

            Used for filtering what observations are retrieved and displayed.

            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            30. Observation.code
            Definition

            Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "name".

            ShortType of observation (code / type)
            Comments

            All code-value and, if present, component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation.

            Control1..1
            BindingFor example codes, see LOINCCodes
            (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-codes)

            Codes identifying names of simple observations.

            TypeCodeableConcept
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summarytrue
            Requirements

            Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation.

            Alternate NamesName
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            32. Observation.code.id
            Definition

            Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

            ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
            Control0..0
            Typestring
            Is Modifierfalse
            XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
            Summaryfalse
            34. Observation.code.extension
            Definition

            An Extension

            ShortExtension
            Control0..0
            TypeExtension
            Is Modifierfalse
            Summaryfalse
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
            SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.code.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
            • value @ url
            • 36. Observation.code.coding
              Definition

              A reference to a code defined by a terminology system.

              ShortCode defined by a terminology system
              Comments

              Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true.

              Control1..1
              TypeCoding
              Is Modifierfalse
              Summarytrue
              Requirements

              Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems.

              Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
              38. Observation.code.coding.id
              Definition

              Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

              ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
              Control0..0
              Typestring
              Is Modifierfalse
              XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
              Summaryfalse
              40. Observation.code.coding.extension
              Definition

              An Extension

              ShortExtension
              Control0..0
              TypeExtension
              Is Modifierfalse
              Summaryfalse
              Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
              ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
              SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.code.coding.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
              • value @ url
              • 42. Observation.code.coding.system
                Definition

                The identification of the code system that defines the meaning of the symbol in the code.

                ShortIdentity of the terminology system
                Comments

                The URI may be an OID (urn:oid:...) or a UUID (urn:uuid:...). OIDs and UUIDs SHALL be references to the HL7 OID registry. Otherwise, the URI should come from HL7's list of FHIR defined special URIs or it should reference to some definition that establishes the system clearly and unambiguously.

                Control1..1
                Typeuri
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Need to be unambiguous about the source of the definition of the symbol.

                Pattern Valuehttp://snomed.info/sct|http://snomed.info/sct/554471000005108
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                44. Observation.code.coding.version
                Definition

                The version of the code system which was used when choosing this code. Note that a well-maintained code system does not need the version reported, because the meaning of codes is consistent across versions. However this cannot consistently be assured, and when the meaning is not guaranteed to be consistent, the version SHOULD be exchanged.

                ShortVersion of the system - if relevant
                Comments

                Where the terminology does not clearly define what string should be used to identify code system versions, the recommendation is to use the date (expressed in FHIR date format) on which that version was officially published as the version date.

                NoteThis is a business version Id, not a resource version Id (see discussion)
                Control0..0
                Typestring
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                46. Observation.code.coding.code
                Definition

                A symbol in syntax defined by the system. The symbol may be a predefined code or an expression in a syntax defined by the coding system (e.g. post-coordination).

                ShortSymbol in syntax defined by the system
                Control1..1
                Typecode
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Need to refer to a particular code in the system.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                48. Observation.code.coding.display
                Definition

                A representation of the meaning of the code in the system, following the rules of the system.

                ShortRepresentation defined by the system
                Control0..1
                Typestring
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Need to be able to carry a human-readable meaning of the code for readers that do not know the system.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                50. Observation.code.coding.userSelected
                Definition

                Indicates that this coding was chosen by a user directly - e.g. off a pick list of available items (codes or displays).

                ShortIf this coding was chosen directly by the user
                Comments

                Amongst a set of alternatives, a directly chosen code is the most appropriate starting point for new translations. There is some ambiguity about what exactly 'directly chosen' implies, and trading partner agreement may be needed to clarify the use of this element and its consequences more completely.

                Control0..0
                Typeboolean
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                This has been identified as a clinical safety criterium - that this exact system/code pair was chosen explicitly, rather than inferred by the system based on some rules or language processing.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                52. Observation.code.text
                Definition

                A human language representation of the concept as seen/selected/uttered by the user who entered the data and/or which represents the intended meaning of the user.

                ShortPlain text representation of the concept
                Comments

                Very often the text is the same as a displayName of one of the codings.

                Control0..0
                Typestring
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                The codes from the terminologies do not always capture the correct meaning with all the nuances of the human using them, or sometimes there is no appropriate code at all. In these cases, the text is used to capture the full meaning of the source.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                54. Observation.subject
                Definition

                The patient, or group of patients, location, or device this observation is about and into whose 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 observation.

                ShortWho and/or what the observation is about
                Comments

                One would expect this element to be a cardinality of 1..1. The only circumstance in which the subject can be missing is when the observation is made by a device that does not know the patient. In this case, the observation SHALL be matched to a patient through some context/channel matching technique, and at this point, the observation should be updated.

                Control1..1
                TypeReference(Danish Core Patient Profile)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Observations have no value if you don't know who or what they're about.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                56. Observation.focus
                Definition

                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 focus.

                ShortWhat the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record
                Comments

                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 using this element. Use specimen if a reference to a specimen is required. If a code is required instead of a resource use either bodysite for bodysites or the standard extension focusCode.

                Control0..0
                TypeReference(Resource)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                58. Observation.encounter
                Definition

                The healthcare event (e.g. a patient and healthcare provider interaction) during which this observation is made.

                ShortHealthcare event during which this observation is made
                Comments

                This will typically be the encounter the event occurred within, but some events may be initiated prior to or after the official completion of an encounter but still be tied to the context of the encounter (e.g. pre-admission laboratory tests).

                Control0..0
                TypeReference(Encounter)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                For some observations it may be important to know the link between an observation and a particular encounter.

                Alternate NamesContext
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                60. Observation.effective[x]
                Definition

                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 itself.

                ShortClinically relevant time/time-period for observation
                Comments

                At least a date should be present unless this observation is a historical report. For recording imprecise or "fuzzy" times (For example, a blood glucose measurement taken "after breakfast") use the Timing datatype which allow the measurement to be tied to regular life events.

                Control1..1
                TypedateTime
                [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Knowing when an observation was deemed true is important to its relevance as well as determining trends.

                Alternate NamesOccurrence
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                62. Observation.issued
                Definition

                The date and time this version of the observation was made available to providers, typically after the results have been reviewed and verified.

                ShortDate/Time this version was made available
                Comments

                For Observations that don’t require review and verification, it may be the same as the lastUpdated time of the resource itself. For Observations that do require review and verification for certain updates, it might not be the same as the lastUpdated time of the resource itself due to a non-clinically significant update that doesn’t require the new version to be reviewed and verified again.

                Control0..0
                Typeinstant
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                64. Observation.performer
                Definition

                Who was responsible for asserting the observed value as "true".

                ShortWho is responsible for the observation
                Control0..0
                TypeReference(Practitioner, PractitionerRole, Organization, CareTeam, Patient, RelatedPerson)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                May give a degree of confidence in the observation and also indicates where follow-up questions should be directed.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                66. Observation.value[x]
                Definition

                The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value.

                ShortActual result
                Comments

                An observation may have; 1) a single value here, 2) both a value and a set of related or component values, or 3) only a set of related or component values. If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below.

                Control0..0
                This element is affected by the following invariants: obs-7
                TypeChoice of: Quantity, CodeableConcept, string, boolean, integer, Range, Ratio, SampledData, time, dateTime, Period
                Is Modifierfalse
                Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                68. Observation.dataAbsentReason
                Definition

                Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missing.

                ShortWhy the result is missing
                Comments

                Null or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "specimen unsatisfactory".

                The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Note that an observation may only be reported if there are values to report. For example differential cell counts values may be reported only when > 0. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for null or exceptional values.

                Control0..0
                This element is affected by the following invariants: obs-6
                BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from DataAbsentReason
                (extensible to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/data-absent-reason)

                Codes specifying why the result (Observation.value[x]) is missing.

                TypeCodeableConcept
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Requirements

                For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                70. Observation.interpretation
                Definition

                A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal.

                ShortHigh, low, normal, etc.
                Comments

                Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result.

                Control0..0
                BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from ObservationInterpretationCodes
                (extensible to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-interpretation)

                Codes identifying interpretations of observations.

                TypeCodeableConcept
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Requirements

                For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result.

                Alternate NamesAbnormal Flag
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                72. Observation.note
                Definition

                Comments about the observation or the results.

                ShortComments about the observation
                Comments

                May include general statements about the observation, or statements about significant, unexpected or unreliable results values, or information about its source when relevant to its interpretation.

                Control0..0
                TypeAnnotation
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Requirements

                Need to be able to provide free text additional information.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                74. Observation.bodySite
                Definition

                Indicates the site on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site).

                ShortObserved body part
                Comments

                Only used if not implicit in code found in Observation.code. In many systems, this may be represented as a related observation instead of an inline component.

                If the use case requires BodySite to be handled as a separate resource (e.g. to identify and track separately) then use the standard extension bodySite.

                Control0..0
                BindingFor example codes, see SNOMEDCTBodyStructures
                (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/body-site)

                Codes describing anatomical locations. May include laterality.

                TypeCodeableConcept
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                76. Observation.method
                Definition

                Indicates the mechanism used to perform the observation.

                ShortHow it was done
                Comments

                Only used if not implicit in code for Observation.code.

                Control0..0
                BindingFor example codes, see ObservationMethods
                (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-methods)

                Methods for simple observations.

                TypeCodeableConcept
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Requirements

                In some cases, method can impact results and is thus used for determining whether results can be compared or determining significance of results.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                78. Observation.specimen
                Definition

                The specimen that was used when this observation was made.

                ShortSpecimen used for this observation
                Comments

                Should only be used if not implicit in code found in Observation.code. Observations are not made on specimens themselves; they are made on a subject, but in many cases by the means of a specimen. Note that although specimens are often involved, they are not always tracked and reported explicitly. Also note that observation resources may be used in contexts that track the specimen explicitly (e.g. Diagnostic Report).

                Control0..0
                TypeReference(Specimen)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                80. Observation.device
                Definition

                The device used to generate the observation data.

                Short(Measurement) Device
                Comments

                Note that this is not meant to represent a device involved in the transmission of the result, e.g., a gateway. Such devices may be documented using the Provenance resource where relevant.

                Control0..0
                TypeReference(Device, DeviceMetric)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                82. Observation.referenceRange
                Definition

                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 used.

                ShortProvides guide for interpretation
                Comments

                Most observations only have one generic reference range. 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.

                Control0..0
                TypeBackboneElement
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Requirements

                Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                obs-3: Must have at least a low or a high or text (low.exists() or high.exists() or text.exists())
                93. Observation.hasMember
                Definition

                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 group.

                ShortRelated resource that belongs to the Observation group
                Comments

                When using this element, an observation will typically have either a value or a set of related resources, although both may be present in some cases. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below. Note that a system may calculate results from QuestionnaireResponse into a final score and represent the score as an Observation.

                Control0..0
                TypeReference(Observation, QuestionnaireResponse, MolecularSequence)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                95. Observation.derivedFrom
                Definition

                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 image.

                ShortRelated measurements the observation is made from
                Comments

                All the reference choices that are listed in this element can represent clinical observations and other measurements that may be the source for a derived value. The most common reference will be another Observation. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below.

                Control0..0
                TypeReference(DocumentReference, ImagingStudy, Media, QuestionnaireResponse, Observation, MolecularSequence)
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                97. Observation.component
                Definition

                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 observations.

                ShortComponent results
                Comments

                For a discussion on the ways Observations can be assembled in groups together see Notes below.

                Control0..*
                TypeBackboneElement
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Component observations share the same attributes in the Observation resource as the primary observation and are always treated a part of a single observation (they are not separable). However, the reference range for the primary observation value is not inherited by the component values and is required when appropriate for each component observation.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                99. Observation.component.id
                Definition

                Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

                ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
                Control0..0
                Typestring
                Is Modifierfalse
                XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
                Summaryfalse
                101. Observation.component.extension
                Definition

                An Extension

                ShortExtension
                Control0..0
                TypeExtension
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
                103. Observation.component.modifierExtension
                Definition

                An Extension

                ShortExtension
                Control0..0
                TypeExtension
                Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the element that contains them
                Summarytrue
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
                105. Observation.component.code
                Definition

                Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "code".

                ShortType of component observation (code / type)
                Comments

                All code-value and component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation.

                Control1..1
                BindingFor example codes, see LOINCCodes
                (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-codes)

                Codes identifying names of simple observations.

                TypeCodeableConcept
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summarytrue
                Requirements

                Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation.

                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                107. Observation.component.code.id
                Definition

                Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

                ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
                Control0..0
                Typestring
                Is Modifierfalse
                XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
                Summaryfalse
                109. Observation.component.code.extension
                Definition

                An Extension

                ShortExtension
                Control0..0
                TypeExtension
                Is Modifierfalse
                Summaryfalse
                Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
                SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.component.code.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
                • value @ url
                • 111. Observation.component.code.coding
                  Definition

                  A reference to a code defined by a terminology system.

                  ShortCode defined by a terminology system
                  Comments

                  Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true.

                  Control1..1
                  TypeCoding
                  Is Modifierfalse
                  Summarytrue
                  Requirements

                  Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems.

                  Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                  113. Observation.component.code.coding.id
                  Definition

                  Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

                  ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
                  Control0..0
                  Typestring
                  Is Modifierfalse
                  XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
                  Summaryfalse
                  115. Observation.component.code.coding.extension
                  Definition

                  An Extension

                  ShortExtension
                  Control0..0
                  TypeExtension
                  Is Modifierfalse
                  Summaryfalse
                  Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                  ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
                  SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Observation.component.code.coding.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
                  • value @ url
                  • 117. Observation.component.code.coding.system
                    Definition

                    The identification of the code system that defines the meaning of the symbol in the code.

                    ShortIdentity of the terminology system
                    Comments

                    The URI may be an OID (urn:oid:...) or a UUID (urn:uuid:...). OIDs and UUIDs SHALL be references to the HL7 OID registry. Otherwise, the URI should come from HL7's list of FHIR defined special URIs or it should reference to some definition that establishes the system clearly and unambiguously.

                    Control1..1
                    Typeuri
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Requirements

                    Need to be unambiguous about the source of the definition of the symbol.

                    Pattern Valuehttp://snomed.info/sct|http://snomed.info/sct/554471000005108
                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    119. Observation.component.code.coding.version
                    Definition

                    The version of the code system which was used when choosing this code. Note that a well-maintained code system does not need the version reported, because the meaning of codes is consistent across versions. However this cannot consistently be assured, and when the meaning is not guaranteed to be consistent, the version SHOULD be exchanged.

                    ShortVersion of the system - if relevant
                    Comments

                    Where the terminology does not clearly define what string should be used to identify code system versions, the recommendation is to use the date (expressed in FHIR date format) on which that version was officially published as the version date.

                    NoteThis is a business version Id, not a resource version Id (see discussion)
                    Control0..0
                    Typestring
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    121. Observation.component.code.coding.code
                    Definition

                    A symbol in syntax defined by the system. The symbol may be a predefined code or an expression in a syntax defined by the coding system (e.g. post-coordination).

                    ShortSymbol in syntax defined by the system
                    Control1..1
                    Typecode
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Requirements

                    Need to refer to a particular code in the system.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    123. Observation.component.code.coding.display
                    Definition

                    A representation of the meaning of the code in the system, following the rules of the system.

                    ShortRepresentation defined by the system
                    Control0..1
                    Typestring
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Requirements

                    Need to be able to carry a human-readable meaning of the code for readers that do not know the system.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    125. Observation.component.code.coding.userSelected
                    Definition

                    Indicates that this coding was chosen by a user directly - e.g. off a pick list of available items (codes or displays).

                    ShortIf this coding was chosen directly by the user
                    Comments

                    Amongst a set of alternatives, a directly chosen code is the most appropriate starting point for new translations. There is some ambiguity about what exactly 'directly chosen' implies, and trading partner agreement may be needed to clarify the use of this element and its consequences more completely.

                    Control0..0
                    Typeboolean
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Requirements

                    This has been identified as a clinical safety criterium - that this exact system/code pair was chosen explicitly, rather than inferred by the system based on some rules or language processing.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    127. Observation.component.code.text
                    Definition

                    A human language representation of the concept as seen/selected/uttered by the user who entered the data and/or which represents the intended meaning of the user.

                    ShortPlain text representation of the concept
                    Comments

                    Very often the text is the same as a displayName of one of the codings.

                    Control0..0
                    Typestring
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Requirements

                    The codes from the terminologies do not always capture the correct meaning with all the nuances of the human using them, or sometimes there is no appropriate code at all. In these cases, the text is used to capture the full meaning of the source.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    129. Observation.component.value[x]
                    Definition

                    The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value.

                    ShortActual component result
                    Comments

                    Used when observation has a set of component observations. An observation may have both a value (e.g. an Apgar score) and component observations (the observations from which the Apgar score was derived). If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below.

                    Control1..1
                    TypeChoice of: Quantity, CodeableConcept, string, boolean, integer, Range, Ratio, SampledData, time, dateTime, Period
                    [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
                    Summarytrue
                    Requirements

                    An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    131. Observation.component.dataAbsentReason
                    Definition

                    Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.component.value[x] is missing.

                    ShortWhy the component result is missing
                    Comments

                    "Null" or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "test not done".

                    The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for exceptional values.

                    Control0..0
                    This element is affected by the following invariants: obs-6
                    BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from DataAbsentReason
                    (extensible to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/data-absent-reason)

                    Codes specifying why the result (Observation.value[x]) is missing.

                    TypeCodeableConcept
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Summaryfalse
                    Requirements

                    For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    133. Observation.component.interpretation
                    Definition

                    A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal.

                    ShortHigh, low, normal, etc.
                    Comments

                    Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result.

                    Control0..0
                    BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from ObservationInterpretationCodes
                    (extensible to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-interpretation)

                    Codes identifying interpretations of observations.

                    TypeCodeableConcept
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Summaryfalse
                    Requirements

                    For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result.

                    Alternate NamesAbnormal Flag
                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
                    135. Observation.component.referenceRange
                    Definition

                    Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range.

                    ShortProvides guide for interpretation of component result
                    Comments

                    Most observations only have one generic reference range. 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.

                    Control0..0
                    TypeSeettp://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/Observation#Observation.referenceRange
                    Is Modifierfalse
                    Summaryfalse
                    Requirements

                    Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts.

                    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))