How can Subjective data be obtained during a patient interview?

Subjective data is critical in obtaining a patient's personal experience, feelings, and symptoms during an interview. This type of information is inherently based on the patient's own perceptions and cannot be measured objectively. Asking open-ended questions encourages patients to share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in their own words, leading to richer, more detailed information. This technique allows the patient to express the nuances of their condition, such as the severity of pain or the impact of symptoms on their daily life, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

In contrast, other methods mentioned do not capture this subjective experience. Performing a physical examination or checking vital signs provides measurable data that are objective and cannot reflect the patient's personal feelings or experiences. Reviewing past medical records may provide context or background about a patient's health history, but it does not replace the need for current, subjective information gathered directly from the patient during an interview.