What step of the nursing process involves collecting subjective and objective data about the client?

The step of the nursing process that involves collecting subjective and objective data about the client is the assessment phase. During assessment, the nurse gathers comprehensive information regarding the patient's health status by using various methods. Subjective data includes the patient's verbal descriptions of their symptoms, feelings, and experiences, which rely on the patient’s personal perceptions. Objective data is gathered through direct observations, physical examinations, laboratory tests, and vital signs, which can be measured or quantified.

This critical phase lays the groundwork for the entire nursing process by enabling the nurse to form a complete picture of the patient’s health and any potential issues. Without thorough assessment, the subsequent steps—diagnosis, implementation, and evaluation—would lack a solid foundation, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or inadequate care plans.