The nurse is performing a nutritional assessment. Which of the following would be considered objective data?
Dietary history from the patient
BMI (Body Mass Index)
Patient history of alcohol intake
Patient complaint of weight loss
The Correct Answer is B
A) Dietary history from the patient: This information is subjective as it relies on the patient’s personal account of their eating habits, which may be influenced by memory or perception. It does not provide measurable data.
B) BMI (Body Mass Index): This is an objective measure calculated from a person’s height and weight. It provides quantifiable data that can be used to assess nutritional status and potential health risks associated with body weight.
C) Patient history of alcohol intake: This information is subjective as it is based on the patient’s self-report. It does not provide direct evidence and may vary depending on how the patient perceives their alcohol consumption.
D) Patient complaint of weight loss: This is also subjective data, as it relies on the patient’s perception of their weight change. It does not provide concrete measurements and can be influenced by various factors such as mood or misunderstanding of the situation.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Anterior to the elbow: This term describes a location in front of the elbow. While it indicates a direction, it does not specifically address the vertical relationship of the discomfort in relation to the elbow. Since the client described discomfort "above" the elbow, this term is not the most accurate choice.
B) Distal to the elbow: The term "distal" refers to a location that is farther away from the trunk of the body or point of reference. Given that the discomfort is described as being above the elbow, this term is incorrect, as it would imply the discomfort is located toward the hand rather than toward the shoulder.
C) Proximal to the elbow: This term correctly indicates a location closer to the trunk of the body and specifically suggests that the discomfort is situated above the elbow, making it the most appropriate medical terminology to use in this context. It accurately reflects the relationship of the discomfort to the elbow.
D) Inferior to the elbow: "Inferior" refers to a location below another point of reference. Since the discomfort is described as above the elbow, this terminology would not apply and would misrepresent the location of the client’s discomfort.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Subjective report: The most reliable indicator of pain is the patient's own description of their experience. Pain is inherently subjective, and individuals may perceive and express pain differently. Listening to the client's self-report provides valuable insight into their pain intensity, quality, and impact on daily life, which cannot be accurately assessed through objective measures alone.
B) Physical exam: While a physical exam can provide important information about potential sources of pain or related conditions, it may not accurately reflect the intensity or nature of the pain the patient is experiencing. Physical findings may vary widely among individuals with similar pain complaints, making this a less reliable indicator.
C) Results of a CAT scan: Imaging studies like CAT scans can identify structural issues, such as fractures or tumors, but they do not measure pain. Many patients with significant pain may have normal imaging results, while others with severe findings may report minimal discomfort, underscoring the limitations of relying solely on diagnostic tests.
D) The client's vital signs: Vital signs can indicate physiological responses to pain, such as increased heart rate or blood pressure, but they are not specific indicators of pain severity. Many factors can influence vital signs, including anxiety and other medical conditions, making them unreliable for assessing pain levels independently.