Percussion Examination Quiz and Flashcards on Sound

Percussion of the diaphragm is performed to identify its boundaries and quality of the percussion note.

The descent of the diaphragm or diaphragmatic excursion is identified during percussion.

Percussion is performed from the base to the apex of the thorax.

The level of diaphragmatic dullness is determined by percussing upward in progressive steps until dullness clearly replaces resonance.

Percussion is used to identify the resonant lung tissues and the other structures below the diaphragm.

Percussion Steps in Thoracic Examination

Ensure patient crosses both arms in front of the chest to expose the thorax for percussion.
Percuss in symmetric locations from the apex to the base on each side of the thorax.
Use a ladder-like pattern for percussing each chest level, alternating sides systematically.
Identify and note any abnormal percussion sounds or characteristics during the examination.

Diaphragmatic Excursion Assessment

Assess the descent of the diaphragm to determine diaphragmatic excursion.
Focus on locating the boundary where resonant lung tissues transition to dullness of structures beneath the diaphragm.
Avoid percussing directly on the diaphragm; evaluate the chest wall and lower diaphragm boundaries instead.
During quiet respiration, determine the level of dullness – the point where resonance changes to dullness is significant.
Use a pleximeter finger held above the expected dullness level to guide percussion downwards.
Percuss in progressive steps downward until dullness is clearly identified.
Confirm findings by also percussing downward from adjacent areas to validate the transition from resonance to dullness.

Test your knowledge of percussion notes in clinical examination with this quiz. Practice identifying abnormal percussion notes and learn the proper technique for percussing the thorax in a ladder-like pattern.