Assessment Techniques in Clinical Practice

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to assessment techniques in clinical practice, focusing on physical examination procedures and infection control measures.

Physical examination

A systematic approach to assess a patient's health through four techniques: inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.

Inspection

The careful observation of an individual and their body systems, requiring good lighting and adequate exposure.

Palpation

The use of touch to assess texture, temperature, moisture, and the characteristics of organs.

Percussion

Tapping the patient’s skin with short, sharp strokes to assess underlying structures.

Auscultation

Listening to sounds produced by the body, typically using a stethoscope.

Bimanual palpation

Using both hands to envelop or capture certain body parts or organs during examination.

Amplitude (in percussion)

The sound's intensity, which can be described as loud or soft.

Duration (in percussion)

The length of time the percussion sound lingers.

Standard Precautions

Infection control measures used for all patients to prevent the spread of infection.

Developmental needs

Considerations in examination protocols that are adjusted based on the patient's age and stage of development.

Hand hygiene

Crucial step to prevent microorganism transmission, involving thorough washing or using an alcohol-based rub.

Artifacts

Confusing sounds or distractions that can interfere with accurate auscultation.