Which statement best defines objective data?

Which statement best defines objective data?

• A. Patient's feelings and perceptions
• B. Result from observation of patient behavior and clinical signs
• C. Self-reported symptoms described by patient
• D. Family history of illness

Answer: (B)

Objective data are what the nurse can observe or measure about a patient. They come from watching the patient’s behavior and from physical examination findings and diagnostics, such as a patient limping, grimacing in pain, pallor, sweating, fever, abnormal lung sounds, or vital signs and lab results. These data are verifiable and not dependent on the patient’s personal feelings or reports, which is why this statement best defines objective data. The other options describe information reported by the patient or family rather than what can be directly observed or measured.

Objective data are what the nurse can observe or measure about a patient. They come from watching the patient’s behavior and from physical examination findings and diagnostics, such as a patient limping, grimacing in pain, pallor, sweating, fever, abnormal lung sounds, or vital signs and lab results. These data are verifiable and not dependent on the patient’s personal feelings or reports, which is why this statement best defines objective data. The other options describe information reported by the patient or family rather than what can be directly observed or measured.