As a high-caliber training center for those interested in a healthcare career in Dolton, Illinois, we know that going back to the basics is essential for any learning venture.
In this article, we offer both long-time nursing students and new ones some helpful information on the most commonly used nursing assessment methods. Note that this should not serve as a substitute for actual comprehensive material you have to rely on during healthcare training.
The healthcare field recognizes four basic and commonly used assessment techniques. These are:
- Inspection
This technique uses the eyes, ears, or nose to look for observable signs on the body. These signs include symmetry, discoloration, and foul odors. Inspection is usually the first step during in-depth assessments and lays the groundwork for further investigations of findings. - Auscultation
This usually follows inspection, particularly during abdominal assessments. This technique utilizes a stethoscope to locate and determine sounds in the body. These include breathing sounds, heartbeats, and noises in the digestive tract. Abnormal sounds typically indicate disorders. - Palpation
Health practitioners use this technique during physical examinations. It involves exerting varying levels of pressure on different parts of the body using the hands. Light palpation allows you to assess for texture, temperature, moisture, tenderness, and pulsations, while deep palpation assesses for internal organs, tissues, and masses. - Percussion
This technique helps health practitioners elicit sounds or tenderness that may point to underlying problems. Percussion requires a lot of skill and comfort, since it involves tapping different parts of the body at different intensities to determine changes in sound and density. This can cause discomfort and even pain when not done well.
The average health examination will include various techniques. Together, they create a profile of information that directs health practitioners to the next steps they need to take in evaluating and treating a patient’s condition.
Was this helpful to you? Go in-depth on topics like these and more when you enroll in our practical nursing program in Illinois.
For more information, contact Adonis College of Nursing today!
