Correct Assessment Techniques

What is the correct order of abdominal assessment techniques?

Inspection → Auscultation → Percussion → Palpation

Why is auscultation done before percussion and palpation?

Because palpation and percussion can stimulate or alter bowel sounds, giving inaccurate findings.

How is light palpation performed?

Using fingertips to press about 1 cm in a gentle dipping motion to assess tenderness or muscle resistance.

How is deep palpation performed?

With both hands (bimanual if needed), pressing 5–6 cm to assess organs or deeper masses

How is abdominal pain assessed?

Ask about location, character (dull/sharp), duration, onset, what aggravates or relieves it, and associated symptoms like nausea.

What is a hernia?

A protrusion of bowel through weakened abdominal muscles

How is a hernia assessed?

It appears as a bulge, often more visible when coughing or straining