subective/objective data

[NightOwl0624]

I have a quick question about subjective and objective information when gathering assessment data.

According to our book, subjective data can only be provided by the client. Objective is what you observe or measure.

If the client is unconscious and a family member is giving history, is this considered subjective or objective?

Thanks

[cocopuff1717]

Can information in a patient's chart be included in my objective data?

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

i wish i could put these in two columns, side by side, but i can't.

objective, regardless of who taught you anything, is defined thus:

)) not influenced by personal feelings, interpretations, or prejudice; based on facts; unbiased: an objective opinion

)) of or pertaining to something that can be known, or to something that is an object or a part of an object; existing independent of thought or an observer as part of reality.

so, "the patient states, 'i have quit smoking' " is objective, because he did, in fact, say that.

lab and diagnostics, vital signs and other examination findings are all objective. "pain on palpation" is objective.

"resp rate 26 and labored, insp and exp wheezing throughout, exacerbated on minimal exertion (bed-to-chair transfer)" is objective.

subjective:

)) existing in the mind; belonging to the thinking subject rather than to the object of thought ( opposed to objective).

)) pertaining to or characteristic of an individual; personal; individual: a subjective evaluation.

""i am so jittery since i quit smoking" is subjective, because he is reporting how he feels. he might not look jittery to you, but he says he feels that way.

"my belly is killing me," is subjective.

"i can't breathe, i can't get out of bed without gasping" is subjective.

[cocopuff1717]

thanks for the info.