Which of the following is considered objective data during a nursing assessment?

Objective data refers to information that can be observed, measured, or quantified without relying on personal feelings or opinions. This data is often gathered through physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and other measurable means, making it an essential aspect of nursing assessments.

In the context of this question, observations of skin color and temperature are clearly objective because they can be directly measured or visually assessed by the nurse. For example, a nurse can visually confirm whether the skin appears pale, flushed, or normal, and temperature can be precisely measured using a thermometer. This type of data helps inform clinical judgments and helps establish a baseline for the patient's condition.

In contrast, patient-reported symptoms of nausea, descriptions of pain intensity, and emotional state as described by the patient are considered subjective data. These reflections are based on the patient's personal experiences and feelings, which cannot be measured or observed by another party in a tangible way. Hence, they provide important insights but do not fit the definition of objective data.