Which statement describes an objective data example?

Which statement describes an objective data example?

• A. A blood pressure reading of 122/78 mmHg.
• B. The resident reports dizziness.
• C. The resident states feeling anxious.
• D. The resident reports pain.

Answer: (A)

Objective data are facts you can observe or measure, not just report. A blood pressure reading is an objective data example because it’s obtained with a device and yields a specific number that anyone can verify. Dizziness, feeling anxious, and pain are subjective data—reports of how the resident feels. They rely on the resident’s own perception and aren’t verifiable by measurement alone. In clinical documentation, the blood pressure would be recorded as an objective finding, while the other statements would be documented as subjective symptoms or complaints.

Objective data are facts you can observe or measure, not just report. A blood pressure reading is an objective data example because it’s obtained with a device and yields a specific number that anyone can verify. Dizziness, feeling anxious, and pain are subjective data—reports of how the resident feels. They rely on the resident’s own perception and aren’t verifiable by measurement alone. In clinical documentation, the blood pressure would be recorded as an objective finding, while the other statements would be documented as subjective symptoms or complaints.