Health Asses Part 3

Patient Interview

The introductory phase of the patient interview involves establishing rapport and explaining the purpose of the interview.

Vital Signs

Determining the patient's vital signs is a priority in assessing their immediate health status.

COLDSPA

The mnemonic "COLDSPA" is used to assess the characteristics of a patient's complaint, including severity.

Past Health History

A patient's past health history includes significant medical events and family health history.

Verbal Communication

An example of verbal communication in nursing is providing a laundry list of descriptors when needed.

Health History Sequence

The correct sequence for obtaining health history includes:Biographic data, Reason for seeking care, History of present concern, Past health history, Family health history, Review of body systems.

Musculoskeletal Assessment

Documenting joint stiffness and knee swelling relates to the musculoskeletal system.

Gastrointestinal Assessment

Unremarkable results in the gastrointestinal assessment can be documented as "patient denies recent constipation, diarrhea, bowel incontinence, or abdominal pain."

Health History Rationale

The rationale for obtaining a health history is to gather comprehensive information about the patient.

Exercise Habits

Following up on a patient's sedentary lifestyle can include discussing the benefits of regular exercise.

Crisis Support

Assessing where a patient turns for help in a crisis evaluates their coping strategies and support systems.

Physical Exam Preparation

Before a physical exam, it is important to collect necessary equipment.

Reducing Anxiety

Providing a comfortable room temperature is an appropriate action to reduce anxiety during a pelvic exam.

Standard Precautions

Performing hand hygiene between examinations is an example of applying standard precautions.

Wood's Light Use

A Wood's light is used to assess for fungal infections in skin complaints.

Centimeter-Scale Ruler

A centimeter-scale ruler is appropriate for measuring skin lesion size.

Near Vision Assessment

A Snellen chart is the most appropriate tool for assessing near vision.

Fecal Material Check

Checking fecal material for blood is important after a digital-rectal exam.

Goniometer Use

A goniometer is used to assess joint flexion and extension.

Patient Autonomy

Respecting a patient's wishes regarding a pelvic exam is crucial while explaining its importance.

Objective Data Collection

The collection of objective data should begin with vital signs.

Throat Culture Precautions

Using a face mask demonstrates adherence to standard precautions during a throat culture.

Physical Exam for Stroke Patient

Minimizing position changes is important when examining a patient recovering from a stroke.

Peripheral Pulses Position

The patient should be in a supine position when assessing peripheral pulses.

Temperature Assessment

The dorsal hand surface is best for assessing the temperature of the feet.

Deep Palpation Technique

Deep palpation for hepatomegaly should involve using both hands to depress the skin 1 to 2 inches.