A nurse is documenting assessment findings for a client. Which of the following is an example of subjective data?

A. The client drank 240 mL of water at 0800: This is objective data because it is a measurable and observable fact that can be verified by the nurse. Documentation of intake is based on direct observation rather than the client’s perception. B. The client's gait is steady while using a walker: This is objective data as it is based on the nurse’s direct observation of the client’s physical performance. It can be measured or assessed without relying on the client’s personal experience. C. The client cries while answering questions: Crying is an observable behavior, making it objective data. While it may indicate distress, the nurse is reporting what was seen rather than the client’s internal experience. D. The client points to a 6 on the visual analog pain scale: This is subjective data because it reflects the client’s personal perception of pain, which cannot be independently measured or verified. Pain is inherently subjective, relying on the client’s self-report.