Which of the following is an example of objective data?

• A. The patient reports pain level 7 out of 10
• B. The patient reports feeling anxious
• C. The nurse observes fever and tachycardia
• D. The patient states sleep is adequate

Answer: (C)

Objective data are observable, measurable facts about a patient that can be verified by anyone. The nurse observing fever and tachycardia fits this because fever is a measurable temperature elevation and tachycardia is a recorded fast heart rate. These signs can be documented with instruments (thermometer, pulse measurement) and observed behavior, independent of the patient’s feelings. In contrast, the patient’s report of pain level, feelings of anxiety, and perceptions of sleep adequacy are subjective data—they rely on the patient’s personal experience and description. So the nurse’s observation of fever and tachycardia is the example of objective data.