In nursing assessment, what is the difference between cues and data?

• A. Data are raw pieces of information; cues are interpreted signals that suggest potential problems.
• B. Data are interpreted signals; cues are numbers.
• C. Cues are raw measurements; data are feelings.
• D. Data are opinions; cues are measurements.

Answer: (A)

In nursing assessment, raw information collected from the patient and observations are called data. These are the facts you gather—things like vital signs, lab results, patient statements, and your objective findings from the exam. Cues are the interpreted signals you derive from those data—the patterns or symptoms that suggest a potential problem and guide you toward further assessment or action. So data are the facts you collect; cues are the meaningful indications you infer from those facts that something may be going on and needs closer look.