What does "Subjective" refer to in a patient assessment?

In the context of patient assessment, "Subjective" refers to information that is derived from the patient's personal experiences, understanding, and feelings, which are typically shared in their own words. This includes statements made by the patient or significant others regarding symptoms, feelings, or perceptions of their condition. This information is invaluable as it gives healthcare providers insight into how the patient perceives their health issue and enables them to understand the impact of the condition on the patient's life.

In this framework, observable signs, diagnoses made by providers, and clinical test results are categorized as objective data. These are measurable and can be confirmed through observation or testing, contrasting with the subjective nature of the information that patients report. This distinction is crucial in developing a comprehensive assessment that combines both subjective and objective data for a complete picture of the patient's health status.