Final answer:
Objective data in nursing assessment refers to measurable and observable information such as vital signs, physical exam findings, and results from lab tests. It stands in contrast to subjective data, which includes the patient's personal experiences and reported symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
When categorizing nursing assessment data, the nurse will classify objective data as information that is measurable and observable. Objective data can include vital signs like pulse rate and blood pressure, physical examination findings, and laboratory or diagnostic test results. An example would be a nurse confirming that the sponge, needle, and instrument counts are complete after a procedure, ensuring that specimens are correctly labeled, or that the surgical site is marked appropriately. These are all objective because they do not rely on personal feelings or experiences, but rather on verifiable facts.
In contrast, subjective data involves the patient's personal experiences, such as reported feelings of nausea or pain, which cannot be measured directly and depend on the patient's self-report. For instance, an objective observation can be a confirmation that the patient's identity and consent for a surgery have been verified or noting that the pulse oximeter is functional. These details can be confirmed through observation and are not influenced by personal feelings or interpretations.