Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Are nursing diagnoses chosen based on subjective and objective data obtained from the patient?

1. True

2. False

3. Sometimes

4. Only in acute situations

The correct answer is: True

Nursing diagnoses are indeed based on both subjective and objective data collected from the patient. Subjective data include the patient's personal experiences, feelings, and perspectives as expressed during the assessment. This might involve information such as pain levels, emotional status, and personal health beliefs. Objective data, on the other hand, consist of observable and measurable factors such as vital signs, laboratory results, and physical examination findings. The synthesis of these two types of data allows nursing professionals to form a comprehensive picture of the patient’s health status, leading to a well-informed and accurate nursing diagnosis. This process is crucial for developing an effective care plan that addresses the individual needs of the patient, promoting better health outcomes. Proper assessment and diagnosis set the foundation for all subsequent nursing actions and interventions, emphasizing the essential role of thorough data collection in the nursing process.