Which statement best defines subjective information?

• A. What information the patient or family tells you
• B. What you observe on the examination
• C. Lab data
• D. Imaging results

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is the difference between subjective and objective data in history taking. Subjective information is what the patient or family tells you—descriptions of symptoms, sensations, timing, and concerns that come from their experience and cannot be measured directly by someone else. That’s why the statement describing information the patient or family tells you best defines subjective data.

In contrast, information obtained from the exam or tests—what you observe during the examination, lab results, and imaging studies—are objective data because they are observable or measurable by others. So while patient-reported symptoms are essential for forming a diagnosis, the other sources provide objective evidence that can be verified.