What type of data is characterized by patient verbal descriptions of health problems?

Subjective data refers to the information obtained directly from the patient through their verbal descriptions of their feelings, perceptions, and experiences related to their health problems. This type of data includes the patient's complaints, symptoms, and concerns communicated during interviews or assessments, allowing the healthcare provider to gain insight into the patient's personal experiences.

In a clinical context, subjective data plays a crucial role in developing a care plan, as it reflects the patient's perspective on their health status. Understanding what the patient reports can help in diagnosing, planning interventions, and evaluating outcomes effectively.

The other types of data differ in focus: objective data encompasses measurable or observable information gathered through physical examinations, tests, or diagnostic imaging. Statistical data typically entails numerical information collected for analysis and research purposes, while qualitative data refers to non-numeric information that can include subjective components but is broader in scope, often used in research contexts to explore patterns or themes. In this case, the emphasis on the patient's verbal descriptions aligns specifically with subjective data.