Differentiate subjective and objective data in nursing documentation.

Differentiate subjective and objective data in nursing documentation.

• A. Subjective data are reported as observed signs.
• B. Subjective data are measured values.
• C. Objective data are feelings reported by the client.
• D. Subjective data are reported by the client; objective data are observed or measured.

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is telling the difference between what the patient reports about themselves and what the clinician observes or measures. Subjective data come from the patient’s own words—how they feel, what they perceive, and descriptions of their symptoms. Objective data are things you can observe directly or measure with instruments—vital signs, lab results, physical findings, and observable conditions.

Why the correct statement fits best: subjective data are reported by the client, while objective data are observed or measured. For example, a patient may report “I’m having a severe headache,” which is subjective. In contrast, you might record a blood pressure of 128/82 mm Hg, a pulse of 78, and an observed pallor, which are objective data. Documenting both types gives a complete picture: the patient’s personal experience plus measurable findings.

Why the other ideas don’t fit: subjective data aren’t measured values, and they aren’t observed signs—measurements and observed signs belong to objective data. Feelings or sensations reported by the client aren’t objective; they’re subjective.