Physical Exam Practicum

Signalment

Species, breed, age, sex, reproductive status

History

Ask the owner about environment, diet, medical history, reproductive history, vaccination status, current medications, and history and description of complaint

General Appearance

General appearance, body conditions, mentation, posture and gait, and hydration

Vital SIgns

Body weight, temperature, heart/pulse rate, respiratory rate, perfusion

EENT/Mouth

Inspect for symmetry, assess nose and eyes discharge, assess oral cavity, assess ears for signs of infection, palpate lymph nodes

Trunk and Limbs

Inspect for symmetry, palpate each limb and joint, visually inspect skin, hair, and muscle mass, palpate pelvic region and vertebral column, palpate peripheral lymph nodes

Thorax

Palpate thorax, cardiac auscultation

Respiratory

Auscult at least 4 different areas, check degree of chest movement

Abdomen

Inspect for symmetry, auscultate abdomen for intestinal activity, palpate abdomen from spine and move ventrally

External genitalia and perineum

Verify sex and reproductive status, inspect for matting, feces, and masses, palpate mammary glands in females