In nursing assessment, what differentiates 'signs' from 'symptoms'?

In nursing assessment, the distinction between 'signs' and 'symptoms' is primarily based on the source of the information and how it is obtained. Signs are observable phenomena that a nurse can detect through examination, such as a rash, elevated blood pressure, or abnormal lung sounds. These are objective findings that can be measured or seen, providing concrete evidence of a patient’s condition.

In contrast, symptoms are experiences reported by the patient, reflecting their personal feelings or perceptions related to their health status, such as pain, nausea, or fatigue. Symptoms are inherently subjective and can vary significantly between individuals, which is why they rely on the patient's self-reporting for assessment.

This understanding is crucial in nursing, as it helps nurses to gather comprehensive information during assessments. Recognizing the difference allows for better documentation, understanding of patient needs, and formation of care plans that address the entirety of the patient's health status.