Physical examinations
Physical examinations are routine evaluations performed by healthcare professionals to assess a patient’s overall health status and identify any potential medical issues. These examinations involve a thorough review of the patient’s medical history, a series of observations, and various physical tests. During a physical examination, the healthcare provider may measure vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature. They also assess different body systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal systems, to detect any abnormalities or signs of disease.
A physical examination typically begins with the healthcare provider asking about the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and any symptoms they may be experiencing. This is followed by a systematic examination, which includes inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. Inspection involves visually examining the body for any obvious signs of health issues, such as skin changes or deformities. Palpation involves feeling the body with hands to check for tenderness, swelling, or masses. Percussion involves tapping on specific areas to assess the condition of internal organs based on the sound produced. Auscultation involves listening to internal body sounds, such as the heart and lungs, using a stethoscope. These combined techniques help healthcare providers diagnose conditions early, monitor chronic diseases, and guide patients in maintaining their health.