Medical Assessment and Diagnosis

Study Notes

Vital Signs

Definition: Measurements of a patient's basic physiological functions
Components:
1. Body Temperature: Normal range: 36.5°C - 37.5°C (97.7°F - 99.5°F)
2. Pulse: Normal range: 60 - 100 beats per minute (bpm)
3. Blood Pressure: Normal range: 90 - 120 mmHg systolic, 60 - 80 mmHg diastolic
4. Respiratory Rate: Normal range: 12 - 20 breaths per minute
5. Oxygen Saturation: Normal range: 95% - 100%

Physical Examination

Definition: Systematic evaluation of a patient's body systems through observation, palpation, percussion, and auscultation
Components:
- Inspection: Visual examination of the patient's overall appearance and body systems
- Palpation: Feeling the body with hands to assess texture, temperature, and tenderness
- Percussion: Tapping on the body to assess organ size and position
- Auscultation: Listening to sounds within the body using a stethoscope

Diagnostic Tests

Definition: Procedures used to confirm or rule out a diagnosis
Types:
- Laboratory Tests: Blood, urine, and tissue samples analyzed in a laboratory
- Imaging Studies: X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound to visualize internal structures
- Functional Tests: Assess organ function, such as ECG, spirometry, and stress tests

Medical History

Definition: Collection of information about a patient's past and present medical conditions
Components:
- Chief Complaint: Primary reason for the patient's visit
- History of Present Illness: Detailed description of the patient's symptoms
- Past Medical History: Previous illnesses, surgeries, and hospitalizations
- Family Medical History: Medical conditions in the patient's family members
- Social History: Lifestyle, occupation, and environmental factors that may impact health

Description

Assess your knowledge of medical assessment and diagnosis, including vital signs, physical examination, diagnostic tests, and medical history. Learn how to take accurate vital signs, perform a thorough physical examination, and interpret diagnostic test results.