26 Questions
What is the key step in the evaluation of abdominal complaints such as pain, distension, enlarged organs, or masses?
Correlating the information obtained in the medical interview with the physical examination findings
Where does the abdominopelvic cavity lie?
Between the thoracic diaphragm and the pelvic diaphragm
What do the two continuous cavities in the abdominopelvic cavity contain?
The abdominal cavity and the pelvic cavity
How is the abdomen traditionally divided for descriptive purposes?
In quadrants or nine sections/segments
Where are the kidneys located in relation to the peritoneum?
Retroperitoneal (posterior) organs
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
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
When are the kidneys usually palpable?
When the patient is thin and the abdominal muscles are relaxed
How is the width of the aorta assessed?
By pressing deeply in the upper abdomen with one hand on each side of the aorta
What is the typical location for feeling aortic pulsations?
Deep in the epigastrium, slightly to the left of the midline
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
What action should be taken while assessing kidney palpation?
Asking the patient to take a deep breath at the peak of inspiration
In which position might enlarged kidneys be more palpable?
When lying down
What might affect detection of aortic pulsations?
Abdominal girth and diameter of the aorta
"The kidneys are retroperitoneal and usually not palpable". When might they be palpable?
When using both hands to lift up from the back
What should be used to feel deep in the right upper quadrant (RUQ)?
The right hand
What is the main purpose of auscultation in the abdominal examination?
To detect abnormal bowel sounds or bruits
When performing percussion during abdominal examination, what does dullness on the left side suggest?
Enlarged spleen
How can liver size and shape be estimated during abdominal examination?
By percussing and palpating the liver edge
What is the purpose of spleen percussion during abdominal examination?
To estimate the size and shape of the spleen
What is the primary reason for using deep palpation in abdominal examination?
To delineate the liver edge and abdominal masses
During abdominal examination, what does tympany usually indicate when performing percussion?
Gas in the gastrointestinal tract
What does auscultation for at least 2 minutes aim to detect during abdominal examination?
Absent bowel sounds
What is the hook technique used for during liver palpation in abdominal examination?
To take a deep breath
What should be done before performing percussion or palpation during abdominal examination?
The patient should have an empty bladder
Light Palpation during abdominal examination is primarily used for detecting:
Abdominal tenderness
Learn how to correctly execute abdominal examination and integrate medical questioning with physical examination findings in the context of nephrology. The class is based on Bates' Guide to Physical Examination and History Taking, 13th edition.
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