In the nursing process assessment phase, data collected includes subjective data, objective data, and diagnostic tests.

• A. Only subjective data
• B. Subjective data, objective data, and diagnostic tests
• C. Only diagnostic tests
• D. Financial data

Answer: (B)

In the assessment phase, a complete picture of the patient’s health status comes from three kinds of data: what the patient reports (subjective data), what you observe and measure (objective data), and the results of diagnostic tests such as labs or imaging. Subjective data capture the patient’s experience, symptoms, and concerns, which are essential for understanding how the illness affects them. Objective data provide verifiable information you can observe or quantify, like vital signs, physical examination findings, and measured outputs. Diagnostic tests add further clarity by showing physiological or biochemical changes that support or refine your understanding of the patient’s condition.

Financial data isn’t part of the standard health-status data gathered during assessment; it may influence care planning in broader contexts, but it doesn’t describe the patient’s current health status. Together, subjective data, objective data, and diagnostic test results form the foundation for identifying problems, setting priorities, and planning appropriate nursing interventions.