CSD 1C | Abdominal Examination GI

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What is the key step in the evaluation of abdominal complaints such as pain, distension, enlarged organs, or masses?

Ordering laboratory and imaging studies

Assessing the thoracic diaphragm

Palpating the abdomen

Correlating the information obtained in the medical interview with the physical examination findings (correct)

Where does the abdominopelvic cavity lie?

Below the thoracic diaphragm

Between the thoracic diaphragm and the pelvic diaphragm (correct)

Above the pelvic diaphragm

Between the ribs and the pelvic diaphragm

What do the two continuous cavities in the abdominopelvic cavity contain?

The abdominal cavity and the thoracic cavity

The pelvic cavity and the retroperitoneum

The abdominal cavity and the pelvic cavity (correct)

The retroperitoneum and the abdominal cavity

How is the abdomen traditionally divided for descriptive purposes?

In quadrants or nine sections/segments Signup and view all the answers

Where are the kidneys located in relation to the peritoneum?

Retroperitoneal (posterior) organs Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of correlating information obtained in the medical interview with the findings during abdominal examination?

To integrate them with laboratory and imaging studies to make a correct diagnosis Signup and view all the answers

Which method is recommended for palpating the left kidney?

Place the right hand below and parallel to the 12th rib, and lift with the left hand while trying to displace the kidney anteriorly Signup and view all the answers

When are the kidneys usually palpable?

When the patient is thin and the abdominal muscles are relaxed Signup and view all the answers

How is the width of the aorta assessed?

By pressing deeply in the upper abdomen with one hand on each side of the aorta Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical location for feeling aortic pulsations?

Deep in the epigastrium, slightly to the left of the midline Signup and view all the answers

How is spleen palpation typically performed?

By trying to feel the tip or edge of the spleen as it comes down to meet your fingertips Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken while assessing kidney palpation?

Asking the patient to take a deep breath at the peak of inspiration Signup and view all the answers

In which position might enlarged kidneys be more palpable?

When lying down Signup and view all the answers

What might affect detection of aortic pulsations?

Abdominal girth and diameter of the aorta Signup and view all the answers

"The kidneys are retroperitoneal and usually not palpable". When might they be palpable?

When using both hands to lift up from the back Signup and view all the answers

What should be used to feel deep in the right upper quadrant (RUQ)?

The right hand Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of auscultation in the abdominal examination?

To detect abnormal bowel sounds or bruits Signup and view all the answers

When performing percussion during abdominal examination, what does dullness on the left side suggest?

Enlarged spleen Signup and view all the answers

How can liver size and shape be estimated during abdominal examination?

By percussing and palpating the liver edge Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of spleen percussion during abdominal examination?

To estimate the size and shape of the spleen Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for using deep palpation in abdominal examination?

To delineate the liver edge and abdominal masses Signup and view all the answers

During abdominal examination, what does tympany usually indicate when performing percussion?

Gas in the gastrointestinal tract Signup and view all the answers

What does auscultation for at least 2 minutes aim to detect during abdominal examination?

Absent bowel sounds Signup and view all the answers

What is the hook technique used for during liver palpation in abdominal examination?

To take a deep breath Signup and view all the answers

What should be done before performing percussion or palpation during abdominal examination?

The patient should have an empty bladder Signup and view all the answers

Light Palpation during abdominal examination is primarily used for detecting:

Abdominal tenderness Signup and view all the answers