Physical Exam Learning Objectives Flashcards

Study Notes

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.