Nursing Assessment Techniques

These flashcards cover key concepts related to nursing assessment techniques and patient evaluations necessary for proper clinical practice.

What are the four physical assessment techniques?

Inspection, Auscultation, Palpation, and Percussion.

What does inspection involve during a physical assessment?

Visual examination of the patient's body, observing for size, shape, symmetry, color, posture, gait, and any abnormalities.

What is auscultation?

Listening to sounds produced by the body, primarily using a stethoscope to assess heart, lung, and abdominal sounds.

What is palpation in the context of a physical assessment?

Using hands to feel body parts to assess temperature, moisture, texture, tenderness, and pulses.

What is the purpose of percussion during a physical assessment?

Tapping on the body to elicit sounds that indicate the density of underlying tissues.

What is the significance of documenting objective data during an assessment?

Objective data provides measurable and observable findings such as distention, decreased bowel sounds, or masses.

What constitutes subjective data in a patient's assessment?

Symptoms or statements reported by the patient, such as pain, nausea, or changes in bowel habits.

What tests can be used to determine abdominal abnormalities?

Imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, and endoscopic procedures.

What do stool tests assess in a gastrointestinal evaluation?

Occult blood, stool culture for pathogens, and checks for ova and parasites.

How is BMI calculated?

BMI is calculated by using a person's height and weight to classify them as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

What is the purpose of NG tube insertion?

To remove gas or fluid from the stomach, provide nutrition to a patient who cannot eat, or administer medications.

Which factors should be evaluated when assessing G-tubes?

Stoma site integrity, tube patency, position, and the patient's tolerance to the tube.

What does an assessment of the neurological system include?

Evaluation of levels of consciousness, cranial nerve function, motor and sensory function, and reflexes.

What is the Glasgow Coma Scale used for?

To assess a patient's level of consciousness by evaluating their eye, verbal, and motor responses.

What are the Kubler-Ross stages of grief?

Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance.