Physical Assessment Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and assessments related to physical examination and patient care.

Inspection

A method of assessment that involves visually examining a patient's body to evaluate posture, symmetry, and alignment.

Spinal alignment

The orientation of the spine, categorized as normal or abnormal (scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis).

Gait

The manner or pattern of walking, evaluated for rhythm and symmetry.

Range of Motion (ROM)

The degree to which a joint can move in different directions, measured in degrees during physical assessment.

Assessment Techniques

Include inspection, palpation, and testing of ROM and muscle strength.

Muscle strength

The ability of a muscle to exert force that is evaluated through active and passive movements.

Primary Prevention

Strategies aimed at preventing diseases and conditions through health education, lifestyle changes, and regular screenings.

Secondary Prevention

Procedures focused on early detection and intervention of diseases to reduce severity.

Tertiary Prevention

Efforts to manage and rehabilitate chronic diseases to improve quality of life and functional status.

ABCDE criteria for skin cancer

Asymmetry, Border, Color change, Diameter >6mm, Evolving – used to assess risk for skin cancer.

Learning Styles

Different methods through which individuals acquire knowledge, including cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains.

Patient-centered care

An approach to healthcare that respects and responds to individual patient preferences, needs, and values.

Morse Fall Scale

A tool used to assess a patient's risk of falling.

Braden Scale

A tool used to assess a patient's risk for developing pressure ulcers.