Head-to-Toe Examination: Adult



Head-to-Toe Examination


Adult



Components of the Examination


There is no one correct way to order the parts of the physical examination. You are encouraged to consider and then to adapt and edit the following suggested approach for the unique needs of the particular patient and the relevant demands of the moment.



General Inspection


Start examination the moment the patient is within your view. As you first observe the patient, for example, in the waiting room, take note of the following characteristics:



• Signs of distress or disease


• Habitus


• Manner of sitting


• Degree of facial relaxation


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• Relationship with others in room


• Degree of interest in what is happening in room


• Manner with which you are met


• Moistness of palm when you shake hands


• Eyes—luster and expression of emotion


• Skin color


• Facial expression


• Mobility:



• Speech pattern, disorders, foreign language


• Difficulty hearing, assistive devices


• Stature and build


• Musculoskeletal deformities


• Vision problems, assistive devices


• Eye contact with you


• Orientation, mental alertness


• Nutritional state


• Respiratory problems


• Significant others accompanying patient





Patient Seated, Wearing Gown


Stand in front of patient seated on examining table.


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Neck



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Apr 2, 2017 | Posted by in NURSING | Comments Off on Head-to-Toe Examination: Adult

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