Nf
A LITTLE LIGHTBULB MOMENT
Nursing foundations
Subjective vs. objective data
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Subjective says it; objective observes it.
The idea behind the cue
Subjective data are reported experiences; objective data are observed or measured findings.
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Short & simple
Subjective says it; objective observes it.
Acronym
SO: Says / Observes.
Story
A patient describes a headache; a thermometer gives a number. Both belong in the evidence basket.
Connect the pieces
- Says → reported experience
- Observes → measured or observed finding
Know the limits
Subjective does not mean unimportant or untrue.
Open RN · Nursing Fundamentals 2e · CC BY 4.0; adapted ↗Check your understanding
Which is subjective data?
A. The patient reports nausea
B. Measured blood pressure
C. Recorded temperature
D. Observed wound size
Reveal explanation
The patient reports nausea
Subjective data are reported experiences; objective data are observed or measured findings.