CH8 Assessment Techniques and Safety in the Clinical Setting

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on assessment techniques and safety in clinical settings, focusing on methods, instruments, and principles of conducting physical examinations.

Physical Examination

A systematic evaluation to gather data about a patient's health using senses and techniques.

Technical Skills

Abilities required for the effective performance of a physical examination.

Inspection

A careful visual examination of a patient to assess their conditions.

Palpation

The process of using touch to determine the characteristics of body tissues.

Percussion

Tapping on a surface to determine the underlying structures based on sound and vibration.

Auscultation

The act of listening to body sounds, usually with a stethoscope.

General Survey

An overall assessment of the patient's condition that occurs at the start of the examination.

Symmetry

The state of having corresponding parts that are alike in form and arrangement.

Auscultation Techniques

Methods used to listen to sounds in the body, usually requiring a stethoscope.

Bimanual Palpation

Using both hands to enclose or capture an organ or structure for assessment.

Vibration

A technique used in palpation to evaluate pulsation or movement in a body part.

Temperature Assessment

Determining the temperature of body parts through touch.

Pleximeter

The finger placed against the skin during percussion.

Plexor

The finger used to strike the pleximeter during percussion.

Artifact

Unwanted sounds or results caused by external factors during examinations.

Earpiece Slope

The appropriate angle of the stethoscope's earpiece to fit the ear canal.

Tuning Fork

An instrument used to test hearing and vibration perception during an examination.

Warm Environment

Physiological condition necessary for patient comfort during examination.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Gear worn to minimize exposure to hazards and infections.

Hand Hygiene

The act of washing hands to prevent infection transmission.

Surveillance

Monitoring and preventing infections in healthcare settings.

Transmission-Based Precautions

Additional safety procedures established for patients with known or suspected infections.

Confidentiality

The ethical principle that guarantees privacy and protection of patient information.

Developmental Stages

Different phases of growth that influence how assessments are conducted in various age groups.

Erikson's Stages

The eight stages of psychosocial development proposed by Erik Erikson.

Anxiety Reduction

Strategies used to alleviate a patient's fears and concerns prior to examination.

Tympany

A type of percussion note that is loud, high-pitched, and usually musical, indicating a hollow space.

Dullness

A soft, high-pitched note produced over solid structures.

Heart Sounds

Sounds produced by the heart during the cardiac cycle, crucial for assessment.

Clinical Setting

The environment in which healthcare is delivered and assessments are performed.

Manipulation

Movement of a joint during physical examination to assess range of motion.

Patient Positioning

The arrangement of a patient’s body to facilitate examination.

Otoscope

An instrument used to examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane.

Ophthalmoscope

An instrument used to examine internal eye structures.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A test to measure the electrical activity of the heart.

Visual Acuity

The clarity or sharpness of vision assessed during an examination.

Snellen Chart

An eye chart used for measuring visual acuity.

Privacy and Comfort

Ensuring a patient feels safe and secure during examination.

Effective Communication

The ability to clearly convey information between provider and patient.

Cultural Sensitivity

Awareness and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds and practices.

Patient Education

Informing patients about their health and body to encourage cooperation.

Informed Consent

The process of getting permission for medical procedures with full understanding.

Follow-Up Care

The necessary actions and consultations that occur after an examination.

Mini-Database

A brief collection of information regarding a patient’s current health status.

Cleansing Equipment

The practice of sanitizing tools to prevent cross-contamination.

Thermometer

An instrument used to measure body temperature during an examination.

Flashlight/Penlight

A small portable light used to examine body cavities and for quick assessments.

Sphygmomanometer

A device used to measure blood pressure.