Abdominal Assessment Techniques

Study Notes

Abdominal Assessment Order

The correct sequence for abdominal assessment is: inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation.
Palpation should be last to prevent altering bowel sounds that might result from percussion and prior palpation.

Bowel Sounds Frequency

Normal bowel sounds are expected to occur 5-35 times per minute in each quadrant.
These sounds are irregular and reflect the activity of peristalsis within the gastrointestinal tract.

Patient Engagement During Assessment

It is essential to explain each step of the abdominal assessment to the patient.
Informing the patient enhances understanding and respect, ensuring they are comfortable throughout the process.
The assessment should be thorough, and complaints of tenderness must be noted but do not halt the assessment.

Techniques for Palpating a Ticklish Abdomen

If a patient is ticklish, placing your hand over theirs can help facilitate a thorough palpation while allowing your fingers to move freely.
Light palpation should start the assessment, and all quadrants must be examined for a comprehensive evaluation.

Effects of Moderate and Deep Palpation

Moderate and deep palpation can result in tenderness that may not be present during light palpation.
This technique is crucial for locating the liver’s margins and assessing strategic areas like the cecum and sigmoid colon.
In a healthy patient, deep palpation should not reveal any masses; it is important to palpate with the side of the hand during specific organ assessments, like the liver and spleen.

Description

This quiz covers the essential steps of abdominal assessment including the correct sequence for inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Learn about normal bowel sounds, patient engagement strategies, and techniques for palpating a ticklish abdomen. Enhance your understanding of how to conduct a comprehensive abdominal examination.