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The primary purpose of a health history is to:

• Diagnose disease

• Gather objective data only

• Collect subjective data about the patient’s health

• Replace physical examination

Objective data are obtained through:

• Patient’s feelings

• Observation and verification

• Family interviews

• Telephone follow-up

Subjective data are best described as:

• Measurable data

• Data verified by others

• Patient’s personal perceptions

• Information from lab tests

Which of the following is subjective data?

• Red, swollen arm

• Elevated blood pressure

• “My head hurts”

• Pulse rate 88 bpm

Before beginning the interview, the nurse should:

• Start with medical questions

• Establish rapport and explain the purpose

• Ask about finances

• Perform physical assessment

The most appropriate interview setting is:

• Busy hallway

• Quiet, private, well-lit room

• Nurse’s station

• Public waiting room

The nurse should sit approximately:

• 6 feet away

• 1 to 1.5 meters away

• 10 feet away

• Standing beside the bed

Using touch during interviews should be:

• Encouraged

• Used frequently

• Used sparingly

• Avoided entirely

Addressing a patient as “sweetie” is:

• Respectful and professional

• Acceptable only if the patient invites it

• Diminutive and should be avoided in professional communication

• A cultural norm that replaces the need for the patient’s name

Nonverbal communication includes:

• Written notes

• Eye contact and gestures

• Medical terminology

• Diagnostic data