What type of data is described as information that is seen, heard, felt, or smelled by the observer?

The correct answer is objective data, as this type of information is based on observations that can be measured or verified, such as physical signs, sounds, and smells. Objective data is what the healthcare provider observes directly or collects through examination and testing. For example, measurements like blood pressure, temperature, or physical findings like a rash are considered objective because they are not influenced by personal feelings or opinions and can be independently confirmed by others.

In contrast, subjective data pertains to information reported by the patient that is based on their personal experiences or feelings, which may not be observable or measurable. Emotional data and insightful data do not specifically pertain to observable phenomena and are not standard terms used in clinical assessments to describe types of data gathered during patient evaluations. This underscores the importance of distinguishing between what can be objectively observed versus what is felt or interpreted subjectively by the patient.