Approach to physical assessment

Physical assessment approach can be used:

1. Head to toe (head to foot)

This approach is carried out starting from the head and then subsequently to the foot. Starting at: general condition, vital signs, head, face, eyes, ears, nose, mouth and throat, neck, chest, lung, heart, abdomen, kidneys, back, genetalia, rectum, ektremitas.

2. ROS (Review of System / body system)

Studies made covering all body systems, namely: general condition, vital signs, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, persyarafan system, urinary system, digestive system, musculoskeletal system and the integument, reproductive system. The information obtained helps nurses to determine which body systems need special attention.

Physical examination is to conduct a physical examination the client to determine the client's health problems. Physical examination can be done in various ways, including the

1. inspection
Examination is conducted by looking at parts of the body being examined through observation. The results such as: Yellow eyes (icteric), there is a goitre in the neck, bluish skin (cyanosis), etc.
2. palpation
Tends to be a physical examination conducted by palpability of the body parts that had abnormalities. For example a tumor, edema, crepitus (broken / fractured bones), etc..

3. auscultation
Is a physical examination conducted by hearing. Typically use a device called a stethoscope. Things that are heard are: heart sounds, breath sounds and bowel sounds.
4. percussion
Physical examination is performed by tapping parts of the body using the hands or tools like reflexes reflex hammer to know someone (specifically discussed). Also performed other tests relating to the physical health of clients. For example: bloating, the limits of the heart, liver-lung boundary (knowing the development of lung), etc..