NURS 125 Week 5 HNT

Assessment of Head, Nose, Neck & Throat

• Focus on understanding anatomy and physiology in relation to the assessment process.

• Recognizing and noting relevant survey data, health history, and expected findings.

• Demonstration of landmarking, techniques, and equipment to be used during assessment.

• Importance of identifying red flags during assessments for further action.

Objectives of Assessment

• Review the overall assessment process and its significance.

• Connect anatomical and physiological knowledge to assessments of HNNT.

• Develop skills to gather health history pertinent to HNNT.

• Determine appropriate assessment techniques and describe expected findings.

• Recognize warning signs (red flags) associated with HNNT issues.

Process of Assessment

• General Survey: Initial observation that assesses overall health.

• History: Collecting detailed patient history.

• Physical Examination: Hands-on examination to gather data.

General Survey Components

• Anatomical Observations: Such as skin color, lesions, and grooming habits.

• Facial Expression: Eye contact and emotional responses.

• Odours: Body and breath odours can provide health insights.

• Physical Condition: Posture, gait, and overall motor activity.

• State of Health: Assessment of consciousness and distress levels.

Health History Mnemonics

• AMIFROSSST: A - Allergies, M - Medications, I - Immunizations, F - Family History, R - Review of Systems, O - Occupation/Education, S1 - Social, S2 - Substance use, S3 - Sex Life, T - Travel/Sick contacts.

• OLDCARTS: O - Onset, L - Location, D - Duration, C - Characteristics, A - Aggravating/Alleviating/Associated factors, R - Radiating, T - Timing, S - Severity (0-10). This helps in effective history taking.

Physical Examination Considerations

• Tailor examination duration and thoroughness based on patient condition.

• Follow a systematic approach: inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation.

• Ensure comfort and privacy during examinations.

• Important to recognize any signs of abuse or maltreatment.

Techniques in Physical Examination

Inspection

• Check for skin conditions, asymmetry, and appropriate anatomy.

• Use bright lighting and ensure patient privacy while inspecting.

• Note any malodours or abnormalities.

Palpation

• Evaluate texture, size, consistency, tenderness, and temperature of regions.

• Assess areas for edema and document findings.

Percussion

• Use appropriate striking techniques to produce sound; important for lung and gastrointestinal assessments.

• Classifications include dull, flat, resonance, hyper-resonance, or tympany sounds.

Auscultation

• Listen for sounds from the heart, lungs, and abdomen for irregularities.

• Key to identifying bruits and murmurs in patients.

Issues of Concern

• Recognize common problems: headaches, trauma, swelling, numbness, and difficulties in swallowing.

• Be alert for symptoms that may indicate malignancy or systemic conditions requiring further investigation.

Red Flags to Consider

• Serious headache conditions with severe or sudden onset.

• Symptoms indicating possible neurological problems like vision changes, coordination issues, or persistent headaches.

Cranial Nerves Assessment

• CN I - CN XII: Each cranial nerve serves specific functions related to sensory and motor skills, crucial for HNNT assessments.

• Test capabilities like olfaction (smell), vision, facial movements, and swallowing.

Conclusion

• The extensive assessments of the head, face, neck, and throat are intricate and require systematic techniques and thorough health histories to ensure a comprehensive understanding and recognition of potential health concerns.