The nurse is taking information for the client’s database. The client

The nurse is taking information for the client’s database. The client is not very talkative; is pale, diaphoretic, and restless in the bed; and tells the nurse to just “leave me alone.”

Which of the following is an example of subjective data regarding this client?
1. Restlessness
2. “Leave me alone”
3. Not talkative
4. Pale and diaphoretic

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Restlessness is observable so it is not an example of subjective data.
Rationale 2: Subjective data can be described or verified only by that person and are apparent only to the person affected. Subjective data include the client’s sensations, feelings, beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions of personal health status and life situations.
Rationale 3: Not being talkative is observable so it is not an example of subjective data.
Rationale 4: Paleness with diaphoresis iare observable so it is not an example of subjective data.