The Physical Examination Chapter 25 The Physical Examination

Methods of Examination Observation or inspection General health Posture Body movements Skin

Methods of Examination Observation or inspection Mannerisms Care in grooming Body symmetry and contour Skin rashes and color Deformities

Methods of Examination Palpation Examination of body using touch Abdominal masses Skin texture, moisture, and temperature

Methods of Examination Percussion Eliciting sounds from body by tapping Vibrations and sounds from underlying organs and cavities Presence of air or solid material Dull and hollow sounds Direct and indirect methods

Methods of Examination Auscultation Listening directly to body sounds The physician normally uses stethoscope Lungs, heart, abdomen, bowels

Methods of Examination Mensuration Measuring process Height, weight, length of limb, amount of flexion and extension, and so on Use of tape measure

Methods of Examination Manipulation Checks degree of flexion and extension of joints Range of motion of joints

Examination Positions Supine (horizontal recumbent) Dorsal recumbent (discuss the Critical Thinking Box)

Examination Positions Lithotomy Semi-Fowler’s

Examination Positions High-Fowler’s Prone

Examination Positions Sims’ (lateral) >> Trendelenberg

Equipment and Supplies for a Physical Exam

Basic Components of a Routine Physical Examination

Basic Components of a Routine Physical Examination Patient appearance Gait Stature Posture Body movements Speech Breath odors Nutrition Skin and appendages