In clinical assessment, which statement correctly describes symptoms and signs?

• A. Symptoms are objective findings observed by the clinician, signs are subjective experiences reported by the patient.
• B. Symptoms are subjective experiences reported by the patient, signs are objective findings observed by the clinician.
• C. Both symptoms and signs are subjective patient reports.
• D. Both symptoms and signs are objective lab values.

Answer: (B)

In clinical assessment, symptoms are the patient’s subjective experiences—what the patient reports like pain, dizziness, or fatigue. Signs are objective findings that you can observe or measure during the exam or with tests—fever, rash, abnormal heart sounds, or findings on imaging or labs. This distinction matters because symptoms come from the history, while signs come from the physical exam and investigations. The statement that symptoms are subjective experiences reported by the patient and signs are objective findings observed by the clinician is therefore the best description.