Examination of the Lower Limbs
Overview Initial steps Components of the examination Anatomy The lower limb is divided into 4 regions: The joints involved include: These joints are surrounded and supported by many muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fibrocartilaginous structures to ensure support and stability and to absorb shock during locomotion. Hip Examination Inspection Palpation and percussion Motor and strength function […]
Examination of the Breast
Introduction Indications Informed consent Positioning for the exam Components of the breast examination Anatomy The anatomy of the breast and axilla as well as the relationship to the thorax should be reviewed before starting. Knowledge of the underlying tissue anatomy makes interpreting and describing the findings easier. Inspection Inspection Skin changes associated with breast pathology […]
Female Genitourinary Examination
Introduction Initial steps Components of the examination Equipment needed External Examination Anatomy Components of the external female genitalia include the mons pubis, vulva (labia minora and majora), clitoris, urethral orifice, vestibule, and external glands. Inspection of the external genitalia Palpation of the external genitalia Table: Lesions of the vulva and vagina Lesion Description Epidermoid cyst […]
Male Genitourinary Examination
Introduction Initial steps Components of the examination Equipment needed External Examination Anatomy Components of the external male genitourinary exam include the skin of the penis, urethral orifice, scrotum, and inguinal area (groin). Examining the external genitalia Inguinal exam Rectal and Prostate Examination The rectal examination is controversial with regard to screening benefits and is no longer […]
Examination of the Upper Limbs
Overview Initial steps Components of the examination Anatomy The upper limb is divided into 3 regions: The joints involved include: These joints are surrounded and supported by many muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fibrocartilaginous structures to ensure support and stability and to absorb shock during locomotion. Shoulder Examination Inspection Inspect the following structures of the shoulder/shoulder […]
Neurological Examination
Mental Status and Speech Mental status examination is an assessment of a subject’s current mental capacity based on the following factors: Cranial Nerves A basic understanding of the underlying neuroanatomy of the head and neck is required before discussing the components of examining the cranial nerves. Table: Examination of cranial nerves Cranial nerve (CN) Examination […]
Dermatologic Examination
Terminology Primary and secondary skin lesions Primary skin lesions occur as a direct result of a pathologic process, while secondary skin lesions are those that result from manipulation of the skin. Table: Primary skin lesions Primary skin lesion Description Macule Flat, nonpalpable skin lesion ≤ 1 cm in size Differs in color from the surrounding […]
Head and Neck Examination
Introduction The head and neck examination is often annotated as HEENT (head, eyes, ears, nose and throat) in clinical documentation shorthand. Equipment needed: Positioning: Environment: Initial steps: Inspection The 1st part of the head and neck exam begins with inspection of the individual. Note pertinent positive and negative findings. General appearance Skull and scalp Hair […]
Cardiovascular Examination
Introduction Inspection Inspection is the 1st part of the cardiovascular examination. Take note of pertinent positive and negative findings. Cardiovascular disease can be detected through a thorough inspection of the entire body. General appearance Chest Head Neck Evaluate for JVD: Extremities Palpation The cardiovascular examination includes palpation of the pulses and the chest wall (precordium). […]
Abdominal Examination
Introduction 1st steps: The components of the abdominal exam: In a different order (auscultation before percussion), the same elements make up the other physical exam sections but carry different degrees of importance. Pelvic, genital, and rectal exams should supplement the abdominal exam for a complete diagnostic workup of abdominal pathology. Anatomy: The abdomen is divided […]