Diagnostic reasoning is the process by which healthcare professionals identify a patient's condition based on the information gathered during an examination. This involves collecting data from patient history, physical exams, and diagnostic tests to form a clear picture of the patient's health status. Once the information is collected, clinicians analyze it to generate a list of possible diagnoses. They then use critical thinking and clinical guidelines to narrow down the options, ultimately arriving at the most likely diagnosis. This systematic approach helps ensure accurate and effective patient care.