Which term refers to gathering patient information such as vital signs and history?

• A. Health Record
• B. Code of Ethics
• C. Data Collection
• D. Professionalism

Answer: (C)

Data collection refers to the process of gathering patient information, including vital signs and medical history, to understand health status and guide care. This term is the best fit because it describes the act of obtaining data during a patient encounter, such as measuring blood pressure, heart rate, and asking about past illnesses and current symptoms. The health record is the place where that information is stored, not the act itself; the code of ethics covers professional guidelines for conduct, and professionalism relates to how clinicians carry themselves. So the essential concept being tested is the act of gathering information, which is data collection.