copyright © 2010 delmar, cengage learning. all rights reserved. chapter 25 the physical examination

Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Chapter 25

The Physical Examination


Methods of Examination

• Observation or inspection– General health

– Posture

– Body movements

– Skin



• Observation or inspection– Mannerisms

– Care in grooming

– Body symmetry and contour

– Skin rashes and color

– Deformities



• Palpation– Examination of body using

touch

– Abdominal masses

– Skin texture, moisture, and temperature



• Percussion– Eliciting sounds from body by tapping

– Vibrations and sounds from underlying organs and cavities

– Presence of air or solid material

– Dull and hollow sounds

– Direct and indirect methods



• Auscultation– Listening directly to body

sounds

– The physician normally uses stethoscope

– Lungs, heart, abdomen, bowels



• Mensuration– Measuring process

– Height, weight, length of limb, amount of flexion and extension, and so on

– Use of tape measure



• Manipulation– Checks degree of flexion and extension of joints

– Range of motion of joints


Examination Positions

• Supine (horizontal recumbent)

• Dorsal recumbent



• Lithotomy

• Semi-Fowler’s



• High-Fowler’s

• Prone



• Sims’ (lateral) >>

• Trendelenberg


Equipment and Suppliesfor a Physical Exam


Basic Components of aRoutine Physical Examination


Basic Components of aRoutine Physical Examination

• Patient appearance• Gait• Stature• Posture• Body movements

• Speech• Breath odors• Nutrition• Skin and appendages

copyright © 2010 delmar, cengage learning. all rights reserved. chapter 25 the physical examination

Documents