17 Questions
What is the primary purpose of the general survey in a physical examination?
Observing the client's overall appearance and mental status
During a physical examination, which technique involves tapping the body to produce sounds that can help in assessing underlying structures?
Percussion
When evaluating a client's skin, what is the term used to describe small, flat, brown spots commonly known as 'freckles'?
Macule
Which assessment in a physical examination focuses on observation of the client's hair texture, distribution, and abnormalities?
Assessing the hair
In physical examinations, what technique involves listening to internal body sounds using a stethoscope?
Auscultation
During a physical examination, which technique involves applying light pressure with the fingers to examine the skin texture, moisture, and abnormalities?
Palpation
What should a nurse do to prepare for a physical assessment in terms of the physical setting?
Close the door to ensure privacy
When preparing the physical setting for a health assessment, what type of lighting is recommended?
Sunlight is preferred when possible
Which of the following is NOT a recommended step to prepare a physical setting for a health assessment?
Provide a warm blanket regardless of temperature
During a health assessment, why is it important to have a private area free of interruptions?
To maintain patient confidentiality and focus
Which action is essential when preparing a physical setting for a health assessment in terms of distractions?
Close the door to minimize interruptions
Why is ensuring adequate lighting important when preparing for a health assessment?
To allow shadows and contours to be viewed clearly
What is the first step to consider when preparing the physical setting for a client's examination?
Ensuring the examination table is at an appropriate height
Which action should be taken to establish the nurse-client relationship before a physical examination?
Sitting down with the client for a detailed discussion
What should be the initial approach when beginning a physical examination?
Respect the client's desires and requests
Which is NOT a recommended item for the examiner to wear during a physical examination?
Scrubs
During a client interview, what should be done at the conclusion before proceeding to the physical assessment?
Inform the client about the upcoming physical assessment
Study Notes
Health Assessment
- The course outline covers weeks 1-5, with a midterm examination on April 5, 2024.
- Topics include functional assessment, physical assessment, and preparing the physical setting.
Preparing the Physical Setting
- Ensure a comfortable, warm room temperature (provide a warm blanket if necessary).
- Ensure a private area free of interruptions from others (close the door or pull the curtains if possible).
- Ensure a quiet area free of distractions (turn off the radio, TV, or other noisy equipment).
- Ensure adequate lighting (preferably natural sunlight, or good overhead lighting with a portable lamp if necessary).
Physical Examination Techniques
- Inspection
- Palpation
- Percussion
- Auscultation
General Survey
- Involves observing the client’s general appearance, level of comfort, and mental status.
- Measurement of vital signs, height, and weight.
- Observation of the client’s body build, posture, hygiene, and mental status.
Assessing the Skin
- Freckles (ephelides) are small, dark spots on the skin.
- Macule is a flat, discolored spot on the skin.
- Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that causes red sores on the skin.
- Vesicles are small, fluid-filled blisters on the skin.
- Atrophy is the wasting away of skin tissue.
- Peripheral cyanosis is blueness of the skin, especially in the hands and feet.
Assessing the Hair
- Observation of hair texture, distribution, and any abnormalities.
Assessing the Nails
- Observation of nail shape, color, and any abnormalities.
Preparing Oneself
- Handwashing (5 moments of hand hygiene).
- Wearing gloves.
- Wearing a mask and protective eye goggles.
Approaching and Preparing the Client
- Establish a nurse-client relationship during the client interview.
- Explain the physical assessment process to the client before starting.
- Respect the client’s desires and requests related to the physical examination.
- Begin the examination with less intrusive procedures (e.g., measuring temperature, pulse, blood pressure, height, and weight).
Learn about the physical examination techniques including inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation, as well as the general survey which involves observing a client's appearance, comfort level, mental status, and vital signs.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
