Answer the following questions in a one or two-page summary of the following questions:
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- Describe the four physical assessment techniques discussed in the textbook. Why is it important to perform the assessment techniques in order?
- Describe the significant characteristics of a general survey. Why is the general survey important?
- Conduct a pain assessment on a family member/friend using one of the pain scales that are discussed in the textbook. Document your findings in a summarized format. (see instructions below).
You may conduct the pain assessment on a fellow student, friend, or family member. Remember to secure their permission.
Include both subjective and objective data when performing the pain assessment & don’t forget to ask the “PQRST” questions using the process described in the textbook.
This is the textbook. Hope you get it online
Jarvis, C. ([Insert Year of Publication]). Physical Examination and Health Assessment (8th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences (US). https://ambassadored.vitalsource.com/books/9780323510806
Title: Physical Assessment Techniques and Pain Assessment Summary
- Physical Assessment Techniques: The textbook discusses four primary physical assessment techniques used by healthcare professionals to gather comprehensive information about a patient’s health status:
a. Inspection: This involves visually examining the patient’s body, looking for any abnormalities, deformities, or visible signs of illness or injury. It is the first step because it provides initial cues and helps guide the subsequent assessments.
b. Palpation: Palpation involves using the hands and fingers to feel for abnormalities, tenderness, swelling, or masses. This technique helps assess the texture, temperature, and moisture of the skin and underlying tissues.
c. Percussion: Percussion is the technique of tapping the body surface to elicit sounds that can indicate the presence of fluid or air in body cavities, as well as the density of underlying organs or tissues.
d. Auscultation: This technique involves listening to the body sounds, such as heart, lung, and bowel sounds, using a stethoscope. Auscultation provides valuable information about the functioning of internal organs.
The importance of performing the assessment techniques in order is that each technique builds upon the previous one. Inspection helps identify potential areas of concern, which then guides the subsequent palpation, percussion, and auscultation. This systematic approach ensures a thorough assessment and increases the likelihood of detecting health issues accurately.
- Significant Characteristics of a General Survey: The general survey is an overall assessment of the patient’s appearance, behavior, and overall health status. Key characteristics to observe during the general survey include:
a. Appearance: Note the patient’s age, gender, skin color, posture, body structure, and signs of distress.
b. Behavior: Observe the patient’s level of consciousness, facial expressions, mood, and speech. Look for signs of anxiety, depression, or cognitive impairment.
c. Mobility: Assess the patient’s gait, coordination, and range of motion. Identify any signs of discomfort or difficulty in movement.
d. Vital Signs: Measure and record the patient’s vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
e. Height and Weight: Record the patient’s height and weight to assess growth and nutritional status.
The general survey is important because it provides a preliminary impression of the patient’s overall health and helps identify any immediate concerns or potential issues that may require further investigation or intervention.
- Pain Assessment:
As per the instructions, I conducted a pain assessment on a family member using the “PQRST” process and the pain scale described in the textbook. The family member’s consent was obtained prior to the assessment.
Subjective Data: The family member, John, a 55-year-old male, complained of a throbbing pain in his lower back, which he rated as an 8 out of 10 on the pain scale. He stated that the pain started two days ago after lifting a heavy object. He described it as a sharp pain that radiates down to his left leg. The pain has been persistent and is worse when walking or bending.
PQRST Assessment: P – Provocation/Palliation: The pain is aggravated by walking and bending and is relieved when lying down.
Q – Quality/Quantity: John described the pain as sharp and throbbing.
R – Region/Radiation: The pain is localized in the lower back and radiates down the left leg.
S – Severity Scale: John rated the pain as 8 out of 10 on the pain scale.
T – Timing: The pain started two days ago and has been persistent since then.
Objective Data:
- Observation: John appears to be in discomfort, grimacing when moving.
- Palpation: Tenderness and muscle spasms are noted in the lower back region.
- Vital Signs: Blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate are within normal limits.
- Height and Weight: John’s height is 5’10”, and his weight is 185 lbs.
Based on the pain assessment, it is evident that John is experiencing significant lower back pain that may be related to a musculoskeletal issue. Further examination and diagnostic tests may be necessary to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In conclusion, conducting a comprehensive physical assessment is crucial in healthcare to gather essential data about a patient’s health status. The general survey provides valuable initial information, while pain assessment helps identify and manage any discomfort or underlying issues affecting the patient’s well-being. A systematic approach to physical assessment ensures accuracy and enhances the quality of patient care.