A nurse is conducting a physical assessment of a client and needs to differentiate between objective and subjective data. Which of the following findings should be classified as objective data?
The respiratory rate is even and unlabored at 22/min.
The client states they feel anxious about upcoming tests.
The client rates their pain as a 3 out of 10.
The client's partner reports the client experiences burning leg pain after walking for 10 minutes.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Respiratory rate measured at 22/min is observable, measurable, and obtained through direct assessment by the nurse. Objective data are factual findings that can be seen, heard, felt, or measured independently of the client’s perception.
B. Feeling anxious is a personal emotional experience described by the client. Subjective data rely on the client’s verbal report and cannot be directly measured or validated by the nurse.
C. Pain rated as 3 out of 10 reflects the client’s personal perception of discomfort. Although a scale is used, pain intensity is subjective because only the client can describe it.
D. Information provided by the partner is still based on reported experience rather than direct measurement by the nurse. This makes it subjective data, even though it comes from a secondary source.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Distributing pamphlets about local health services without collaboration: Providing information alone is a passive approach and may not reach or engage the community effectively. Without collaboration, the intervention may lack cultural relevance and sustainability.
B. Providing individual health assessments for every community member: While comprehensive, this approach is resource-intensive and may be impractical in a rural setting with limited staff and access. It does not leverage community resources for broader impact.
C. Directing all community members to the nearest urban health center: Referring the population to urban centers may create barriers related to transportation, cost, and accessibility. It does not provide locally accessible care or education.
D. Partnering with local schools to implement health education programs: Collaboration with schools provides an accessible, sustainable platform to reach a broad segment of the community. School-based interventions promote health literacy, preventive behaviors, and community engagement, making it the most effective collaborative approach.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Patient has chest pain. Needs to see a doctor.: This entry is vague and lacks essential subjective and objective data. It does not include the client’s own words, pain characteristics, or vital signs. Narrative charting requires detailed, specific, and measurable information.
B. Patient states, “I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my chest while gardening.” Rates pain as 6/10. No radiating pain reported. Blood pressure: 145/95 mm Hg. Heart rate: 100 beats/min, regular.: This entry includes subjective data in the client’s own words, objective assessment findings, and relevant vital signs. It clearly documents onset, quality, severity, and associated findings. This reflects accurate, complete, and legally sound narrative charting.
C. The patient was gardening when they got chest pain. Blood pressure high: This statement lacks specific pain description, numeric values, and patient-reported details. Terms such as “high” are non-measurable and imprecise. Incomplete data limits clinical usefulness.
D. The patient felt pain in the chest while in the garden. No further information provided.: This entry is incomplete and omits critical assessment details such as pain severity, vital signs, and associated symptoms. Narrative charting must provide sufficient information to guide clinical decision-making.
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