Exam 8: Assessment Techniques and Safety in the Clinical Setting

The nurse is preparing to use a stethoscope for auscultation. Which statement is true regarding the diaphragm of the stethoscope?

The nurse is preparing to examine a 4-year-old child. Which action by the nurse is appropriate for this age group?

The nurse is preparing to palpate the thorax and abdomen of a patient. Which of these statements describes the correct technique for this procedure? (Select all that apply.)

During an examination of a patient's abdomen, the nurse notes that the abdomen is rounded and firm to the touch. During percussion, the nurse notes a drum-like quality of the sounds across the quadrants. How should the nurse interpret this type of sound?

An adult male is at the clinic for a physical examination. He states that he is "very anxious" about the physical examination. What steps can the nurse take to make him more comfortable?

While performing the physical examination, the nurse shares information and briefly teaches the patient. Why does the nurse do this?

While percussing over the liver of a patient, the nurse notices a dull sound. What should the nurse do?

The nurse is examining a patient's lower leg and notices a draining ulceration. Which of these actions is most appropriate in this situation?

What action by the nurse is appropriate when examining a 16-year-old male teenager?

The nurse is preparing to assess a hospitalized patient who is experiencing significant shortness of breath. How should the nurse proceed with the assessment?

When performing a physical examination, safety must be considered to protect the examiner and the patient against the spread of infection. Which of these statements describes the most appropriate action the nurse should take when performing a physical examination?

The nurse is examining a 2-year-old child and asks, "May I listen to your heart now?" Which critique of the nurse's technique is most accurate?

A 2-year-old child has been brought to the clinic for a well-child checkup. What is the best way for the nurse to begin the assessment?

When performing a physical assessment, what technique should the nurse always perform first?

The nurse is teaching a class on basic assessment skills. Which of these statements is true regarding the stethoscope and its use?

The nurse is preparing to examine an infant. At what point in the examination should the nurse attempt to elicit the Moro reflex?

A patient has suddenly developed shortness of breath and appears to be in significant respiratory distress. After calling the physician and placing the patient on oxygen, which of these actions is the best for the nurse to take when further assessing the patient?

When examining an infant, the nurse should examine which area first?

The nurse will use which technique of assessment to determine the presence of crepitus, swelling, and pulsations?

The nurse is unable to identify any changes in sound when percussing over the abdomen of an obese patient. What should the nurse do next?