Physical Exam Learning Objectives Flashcards

Study Notes

Head Exam Terms

Normocephalic: Refers to a normally shaped head.
Atraumatic: Indicates no head trauma unless there are signs like lacerations or bruises.

Eye Exam Terms

PERRL: Stands for pupils being equal, round, and reactive to light.
Fixed vs Reactive Pupils: Fixed pupils do not respond to light, indicating potential intracranial abnormalities.
Constricted vs Dilated Pupils: Describes pupils as either very small (constricted) or very large (dilated); size may be measured in millimeters.
Sclera and Anicteric: Anicteric sclera indicates no yellowing (icterus) typically associated with liver issues.
No Conjunctival Injection: Absence of redness in the eyes, suggesting no conjunctivitis.
Extra-ocular Movements Intact (EOMI): The ability to move eyes in an 'H' formation without difficulty.

Ear Exam Terms

Otitis Media: Ear infection causing the tympanic membrane (TM) to appear red due to inflammation.
Normal Appearing TMs: TMs may appear clear and translucent or dull/erythematous if infected or effused.
Bulging TM: Indicates potential fluid accumulation behind the TM pushing it outward.
Middle Ear Effusion: Fluid buildup behind the tympanic membrane.
Otitis Externa: Infection of the ear canal, characterized by obstructed canal with cerumen and purulent discharge.
Abnormal Findings: Presence of cerumen (ear wax) or cloudy discharge indicates infection.

Throat Exam Terms

Erythema: Redness of the throat.
Petechiae: Small, pinpoint hematomas that may indicate infection or other issues.
Exudate: Presence of pus, often associated with infection.
Tonsil Scale: Scale measuring tonsil size, where 0 indicates tonsils fit within the fossa and 4+ indicates tonsils obstructing the airway.
Moist Mucous Membranes (MMM): Suggests hydration; dry membranes indicate dehydration.

Dental Exam Terms

Dentition: Overall arrangement and health of the teeth.
Dental Caries: Cavities that are tender to touch when severe.
Fluctuance: Presence of palpable fluid beneath skin or membranes, a sign of dental abscess.

Neck Exam Terms

Carotid Bruit: Abnormal sound upon auscultation indicative of arterial stenosis.
Jugular Venous Distention (JVD): Enlarged jugular veins due to fluid overload, commonly associated with right-sided heart failure.
Lymphadenopathy: Enlargement of lymph nodes, often related to infections like strep throat or mono.
Nuchal Rigidity: Stiff neck, a classic sign of meningitis.
Meningismus: Stiffness with limited range of motion, typically due to meningitis.
Supple: Indicates no stiffness in the neck.
Tenderness: Common over spinal muscles or vertebral bodies, especially in the midline.
Thyromegaly: Enlargement of the thyroid gland, often seen in hypothyroidism.

Description

Test your knowledge of essential terms and concepts related to physical exams, including HEENT (Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, Throat) and Neck exams. This quiz covers important definitions and abbreviations pertinent to the field of physical assessment.