Question

The nurse administers a first dose of an antibiotic and upon returning to the patient's room makes an observation of the patient as a portion of the assessment process. Which finding(s) is objective data?

Select all that apply.

1. Lung sounds clear to auscultation

2. Skin free of redness

3. Patient complains of itching on fingers

4. Denial of pain

5. 2 plus pitting edema in ankles

Answer 1

Objective data in healthcare include measurable and observable signs such as lung sounds clear to auscultation, skin free of redness, and 2 plus pitting edema in ankles. These data do not rely on the patient's subjective report and can be directly confirmed by the healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

Objective data in healthcare are facts that can be measured and observed by the healthcare provider without subjective interpretation. Based on the student's question regarding the nurse's assessment and which findings constitute objective data, there are a few applicable options. When a nurse observes the following findings, they represent objective data:

• Lung sounds clear to auscultation
• Skin free of redness
• 2 plus pitting edema in ankles

These signs can be measured or seen by the nurse or another healthcare provider and do not rely on the patient's subjective experience or expression. In contrast, a patient's complaint of itching or denial of pain is considered subjective data because they cannot be directly observed and measured by the healthcare provider; they rely on the patient's personal experience and report.