Physical Examination Techniques Quiz & Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What technique involves assessing texture, temperature, moisture, and organ location and size?

Inspection

Palpation (correct)

Auscultation

Percussion

Which technique involves concentrated watching and collection of objective data like posture and gait?

Palpation

Percussion

Inspection (correct)

Auscultation

When should gloves be used during the physical examination?

Always during palpation

Only when in contact with bodily fluid or genital area (correct)

Never

Only during auscultation

What should happen if a patient complains of pain during palpation?

Stop palpating immediately Signup and view all the answers

Which technique involves listening to heart rate and chest sounds?

Auscultation Signup and view all the answers

Which technique involves gathering data through the sense of touch?

Palpation Signup and view all the answers

What does a 1+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

The skin rebounds back when fingers are indented Signup and view all the answers

What does swelling indicate when an area is injured?

Dilation of blood vessels and increased blood flow to the area Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of stretch marks (Striae) indicate?

Previous stretching or expansion of the skin Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of capillary refill assessment?

To assess the level of oxygen in the blood Signup and view all the answers

What does clubbing of the fingers indicate?

Prolonged deoxygenation, often seen in smokers Signup and view all the answers

What is the mnemonic for assessing lesions for danger signs?

ABCDE2 (Asymmetry, Borders, Color, Diameter, Enlargement and Elevation) Signup and view all the answers

When inspecting the head, what should be assessed?

Size and shape Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of inspecting regional lymphatics of the head, face, and neck?

To detect any palpable, non-painful lymph nodes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of percussion in a physical assessment?

To assess underlying structures by tapping the person's skin with short, sharp strokes Signup and view all the answers

What does hyperresonance indicate during percussion in a physical assessment?

A booming sound over air-filled tissue like lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of auscultation in a clinical setting?

To listen to audible assessments using a stethoscope Signup and view all the answers

In the context of physical assessment, what does pallor indicate when assessing the skin?

A loss of shine and pale color indicating decreased blood flow Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of an environmental scan in a clinical setting?

To ensure availability of equipment for assessment and to sanitize hands and equipment Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach for examining an adolescent's genitalia in a clinical setting?

Allowing adolescent the choice with or without caregiver presence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of inspection during a physical examination?

To gather data through concentrated watching Signup and view all the answers

When should gloves be used during the palpation technique of a physical examination?

Only when in contact with bodily fluids or the genital area Signup and view all the answers

What does palpation aim to assess?

Texture, temperature, and moisture Signup and view all the answers

In what order should palpation be performed?

Top to bottom, medial to lateral Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of auscultation during a physical examination?

To listen to heart rate and chest sounds Signup and view all the answers

Which sense is primarily used for gathering data during the inspection technique?

Sight Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a patient complains of pain during palpation?

Stop palpating immediately as it may indicate a serious issue Signup and view all the answers

What is assessed using auscultation in a clinical setting?

The patient's heart rate and chest sounds Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of percussion in a physical assessment?

To elicit specific sounds from underlying tissues Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by symmetrical in the context of inspection during a physical examination?

What's happening on one side of the body should be similar on the other side Signup and view all the answers

What does a 4+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

The skin does not rebound Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of stretch marks (Striae) indicate?

Skin stretching due to weight gain or growth Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of inspecting regional lymphatics of the head, face, and neck?

To identify any abnormalities or swelling Signup and view all the answers

What routine practices are involved in head, face, neck, and regional lymphatics assessment?

Inspection, palpation, and auscultation Signup and view all the answers

What is the mnemonic for assessing lesions for danger signs?

ABCDE2 Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a patient complains of pain during palpation of the head and neck?

Discontinue the palpation and seek alternative methods Signup and view all the answers

What technique involves assessing texture, temperature, moisture, and organ location and size?

Palpation Signup and view all the answers

When should gloves be used during the physical examination?

Only if there is body fluid present Signup and view all the answers

What does hyperresonance indicate during percussion in a physical assessment?

Normal lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

What does clubbing of the fingers indicate?

Prolonged deoxygenation (e.g., in smokers) Signup and view all the answers

What does a 1+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

The skin rebounds back when fingers are indented Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of capillary refill assessment?

To evaluate peripheral perfusion and circulation Signup and view all the answers

During percussion in a physical assessment, what does a dull sound indicate?

Solid organs like the heart Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of palpating only in one spot at a time during a physical assessment?

To reduce discomfort for the patient Signup and view all the answers

When performing auscultation in a clinical setting, what is the purpose of using a stethoscope?

To minimize external noise and listen better to bowel sounds Signup and view all the answers

What does hyperresonance indicate during percussion in a physical assessment?

Air-filled space like the lungs having too much space Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using an overhead radiant heat source when examining an infant in a clinical setting?

To keep the infant warm and expose only what is needed Signup and view all the answers

In the context of skin assessment, what does pallor indicate when assessing the skin?

Pale color due to loss of shine Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an environmental scan in a clinical setting?

To check for fire, wire, or obstructions Signup and view all the answers

During percussion in a physical assessment, what does tympany indicate?

Gas-filled areas like the abdomen Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using structure that exists around where unusual findings are detected during palpation?

To report findings based on where they exist Signup and view all the answers

When assessing skin lesions, what should be looked for to identify consistency and shine?

Unexpected changes in coloration Signup and view all the answers

What does clubbing of the fingers indicate when assessing a patient?

Low oxygen levels in the blood Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected sound during percussion over air-filled tissue like lung tissue?

Hollow sound Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of inspection during a physical examination?

To collect objective data like posture and gait Signup and view all the answers

What does hyperresonance indicate during percussion in a physical assessment?

Normal air-filled spaces such as the lungs Signup and view all the answers

When should gloves be used during the palpation technique of a physical examination?

Only when in contact with bodily fluids or genital areas Signup and view all the answers

What is the mnemonic for assessing lesions for danger signs?

ABCDE Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of auscultation in a clinical setting?

To listen to heart rate and chest sounds Signup and view all the answers

What is assessed using auscultation in a clinical setting?

Heart rate and chest sounds Signup and view all the answers

What does clubbing of the fingers indicate when assessing a patient?

Cardiovascular disease or respiratory disorders Signup and view all the answers

What routine practices are involved in head, face, neck, and regional lymphatics assessment?

Inspection and palpation only Signup and view all the answers

In what order should palpation be performed?

From top to bottom, medial to lateral, front to back Signup and view all the answers

Which technique involves listening to heart rate and chest sounds?

Auscultation Signup and view all the answers

Which sense is primarily used for gathering data during the inspection technique?

Sight Signup and view all the answers

What does a 1+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

Mild dehydration Signup and view all the answers

What does a 1+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

The skin rebounds back when fingers are indented Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of inspecting regional lymphatics of the head, face, and neck?

To palpate lymph nodes for any enlargement Signup and view all the answers

What does clubbing of the fingers indicate?

Prolonged deoxygenation (e.g., in a smoker) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of capillary refill assessment?

To check the level of oxygen in the body Signup and view all the answers

In the context of skin assessment, what does pallor indicate when assessing the skin?

Paleness or lack of color indicating reduced blood flow Signup and view all the answers

What is the mnemonic for assessing lesions for danger signs?

'ABCDE' - Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving over time Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach for examining an adolescent's genitalia in a clinical setting?

Use a chaperone and explain the examination to both adolescent and parent if present Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by symmetrical in the context of inspection during a physical examination?

Ensuring equal size and shape on both sides of the body Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a patient complains of pain during palpation?

The healthcare provider should avoid palpating that area further to prevent discomfort Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of percussion in a physical assessment?

To identify sounds indicating air-filled or fluid-filled spaces within organs or tissues Signup and view all the answers

What does hyperresonance indicate during percussion in a physical assessment?

The presence of fluid within lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of percussion in a physical assessment?

To assess underlying structures like organs and bones Signup and view all the answers

During percussion in a physical assessment, what does tympany indicate?

Gas-filled areas like the abdomen Signup and view all the answers

In the context of skin assessment, what does pallor indicate when assessing the skin?

Pale appearance with loss of shine Signup and view all the answers

What does hyperresonance indicate during percussion in a physical assessment?

Gas-filled areas like the abdomen Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by symmetrical in the context of inspection during a physical examination?

Bilateral equality between body parts Signup and view all the answers

What does a 4+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

Severe dehydration Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a patient complains of pain during palpation?

Stop and avoid further palpation in that area Signup and view all the answers

In the context of skin assessment, what does edema indicate in a patient's area?

Severe fluid accumulation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of inspection during a physical examination?

Gathering objective data like posture and gait Signup and view all the answers

When should gloves be used during the palpation technique of a physical examination?

Only when in contact with bodily fluid or genital area Signup and view all the answers

What does pallor indicate when assessing the skin in the context of physical assessment?

Pale or white complexion indicating possible anemia or shock Signup and view all the answers

In what order should palpation be performed?

From top to bottom, medial to lateral, and front to back Signup and view all the answers

During percussion in a physical assessment, what does tympany indicate?

Resonance over air-filled tissue like lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

What is the mnemonic for remembering the 4 techniques used for assessment for systems?

IPeA - Inspection, Palpation, Auscultation, Percussion Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of percussion in a physical assessment?

Detecting masses and abnormalities Signup and view all the answers

In the context of skin assessment, what does pallor indicate when assessing the skin?

Greenish skin color due to loss of shine Signup and view all the answers

What does clubbing of the fingers indicate when assessing a patient?

Chronic hypoxia or lack of oxygen Signup and view all the answers

When inspecting the head, what should be assessed?

Lesions and moles on the scalp Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an environmental scan in a clinical setting?

Ensuring availability of equipment and cleanliness Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a patient complains of pain during palpation?

Stop palpating in that area immediately Signup and view all the answers

What does a 4+ measurement indicate when testing skin turgor?

The skin does not rebound when fingers are indented Signup and view all the answers

What is the mnemonic for assessing lesions for danger signs?

ABCs (Asymmetry, Borders, Color) Signup and view all the answers

When assessing nail health, what does 'clubbing' of the fingers indicate?

Prolonged deoxygenation (e.g. in smokers), lack of oxygen Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of inspecting regional lymphatics of the head, face, and neck?

To check for non-painful, movable lymph nodes Signup and view all the answers

In skin assessment, what does pallor indicate?

Lack of oxygen in the blood Signup and view all the answers

What routine practices are involved in head, face, neck, and regional lymphatics assessment?

Inspecting from top to down and checking facial symmetry Signup and view all the answers

'Capillary refill' assessment is primarily used to check the level of:

Oxygen in the blood Signup and view all the answers

'Striae' or stretch marks typically indicate:

Changes in skin color Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Physical Examination Techniques

Palpation: Assesses texture, temperature, moisture, and organ location and size through touch.
Observation: Involves concentrated watching and collecting objective data such as posture and gait.
Auscultation: Focuses on listening to heart rates and chest sounds.
Percussion: Used to identify organ size and density by producing sounds through tapping.

Clinical Procedures

Use of Gloves: Essential during physical examinations, especially during palpation of areas with potential bodily fluid exposure or infection risk.
Response to Pain: If a patient complains of pain during palpation, reassess the pressure and area, possibly discontinue if significant discomfort is noted.
Capillary Refill Assessment: Evaluates circulatory status; a delay can indicate poor blood flow.

Assessing Body Conditions

Skin Turgor Measurement: A 1+ measurement indicates marginal skin elasticity; 4+ indicates severe elasticity loss.
Swelling: Signifies inflammation or injury; may indicate a healing response or underlying pathology.
Stretch Marks (Striae): Common indicators of rapid weight changes or hormonal fluctuations.

Diagnostic Indicators

Clubbing of Fingers: Suggests chronic hypoxia or respiratory diseases.
Tympany on Percussion: Indicates air-filled organs; dull sounds may suggest underlying fluid or mass.
Hyperresonance: Often observed in conditions like emphysema or pneumothorax during percussion.

Inspection Techniques

Symmetry in Inspection: Evaluates normal anatomical balance; asymmetry could suggest pathology.
Lymphatic Assessment: Important for detecting immune responses or cancers in the head, neck, and face region.

Adolescent Examination Approach

Sensitivity: When examining genitalia, maintain privacy, and comfort; consider using appropriate chaperones.

Summary of Functions

Primary Purpose of Inspection: Establish patient's baseline health and identify potential issues through visual assessments.
Signs of Pallor: Can indicate anemia, shock, or other health concerns requiring further investigation.

Assessment Mnemonics

Danger Signs for Skin Lesions: Remember specific criteria for early detection of skin cancers, such as asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, and diameter.
Four Techniques of Assessment: Use mnemonic devices for remembering inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.

Routine Practices and Assessments

Head, Face, Neck Assessment: Regular checks for lymph nodes and head symmetry, assessing for signs of infection or abnormalities.
Environmental Scan: Identifies external factors affecting the patient's health, enhancing holistic care approach.

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Description

Test your knowledge of the different techniques used in physical examination such as inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. Learn about the order in which these techniques are typically performed and their specific purposes.