What type of data is defined as information that is reported by the patient and not directly observed?

The term that describes information reported by the patient, which cannot be directly observed by the healthcare provider, is subjective data. This type of data includes feelings, perceptions, and self-reported symptoms from the patient’s perspective, such as pain intensity, emotional distress, or descriptions of how they are feeling overall.

Subjective data is critical in patient assessments as it provides insights into the patient's health status that cannot be quantified through physical examination or diagnostic tests. These reports help healthcare professionals understand the patient's experience of their condition, informing a more comprehensive approach to care and treatment.

Objective data, on the other hand, refers to measurable and observable information, such as vital signs and laboratory results. Quantitative data encompasses numerical values that can be measured and analyzed statistically, while qualitative data often involves descriptive and categorical information rather than self-reported experiences. Understanding these concepts is essential for effective patient assessment and care management.