Skin, Hair, and Nails
Skin provides an elastic, self-regenerating, protective covering for the body. The skin and its appendages are the primary means by which we are viewed in the world and physical appearances…
Musculoskeletal System
The musculoskeletal system provides the stability and mobility necessary for physical activity. Physical performance requires bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints that function smoothly and effortlessly. Because the musculoskeletal system…
Ears, Nose, and Throat
Examination of the ears, nose, and throat provides information about their integrity and function, as well as the associated respiratory and digestive tracts. The special senses of smell, hearing, equilibrium,…
Female Genitalia
Examination of the female genitalia is typically performed when a patient presents with a specific concern, as part of the newborn examination, for the sexually active adolescent, or as part…
Neurologic System
The nervous system, with its central and peripheral divisions, maintains and controls all body functions by its voluntary and autonomic responses. The evaluation of motor, sensory, autonomic, cognitive, and behavioral…
Male Genitalia
Examination of the male genitalia is typically performed when a patient presents with a specific concern, as part of the newborn examination, or as part of an overall child or…
Breasts and Axillae
The breast examination is typically performed when a patient presents with a specific breast concern, as a follow-up to an abnormal examination or increased risk for breast cancer, or as…
Putting It All Together
This chapter asks that you integrate all you have learned about interviewing, building a history, and performing the physical examination. It offers a suggested approach and sequence for performing all…
