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Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of the general survey in a physical examination?
During a physical examination, which technique involves tapping the body to produce sounds that can help in assessing underlying structures?
When evaluating a client's skin, what is the term used to describe small, flat, brown spots commonly known as 'freckles'?
Which assessment in a physical examination focuses on observation of the client's hair texture, distribution, and abnormalities?
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In physical examinations, what technique involves listening to internal body sounds using a stethoscope?
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During a physical examination, which technique involves applying light pressure with the fingers to examine the skin texture, moisture, and abnormalities?
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What should a nurse do to prepare for a physical assessment in terms of the physical setting?
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When preparing the physical setting for a health assessment, what type of lighting is recommended?
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Which of the following is NOT a recommended step to prepare a physical setting for a health assessment?
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During a health assessment, why is it important to have a private area free of interruptions?
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Which action is essential when preparing a physical setting for a health assessment in terms of distractions?
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Why is ensuring adequate lighting important when preparing for a health assessment?
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What is the first step to consider when preparing the physical setting for a client's examination?
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Which action should be taken to establish the nurse-client relationship before a physical examination?
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What should be the initial approach when beginning a physical examination?
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Which is NOT a recommended item for the examiner to wear during a physical examination?
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During a client interview, what should be done at the conclusion before proceeding to the physical assessment?
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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).
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Description
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.
