Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

Which of the following are comparisons of the physical examination?

1. Inspection and Manipulation

2. Inspection, Auscultation, and Percussion

3. Auscultation and Manipulation

4. Inspection, Auscultation, and Manipulation

The correct answer is: Inspection, Auscultation, and Percussion

The correct choice highlights an important triad of techniques used in physical examination: inspection, auscultation, and percussion. Each of these techniques serves a specific purpose in assessing a patient's condition. Inspection involves closely observing the patient for any signs of illness, abnormalities, or changes in appearance. This can include examining the skin, posture, movements, and overall physical state. It provides immediate visual clues that can indicate underlying health issues. Auscultation is the method of listening to the internal sounds of the body, generally using a stethoscope. It is essential for evaluating the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs, allowing clinicians to detect abnormalities such as irregular heartbeats, lung crackles, or bowel sounds. Percussion involves tapping on the body surface to assess underlying structures. It can be used to determine the size, consistency, and borders of the organs, as well as the presence of fluid or air in cavities. The sound produced during percussion can provide insights into whether tissues are solid, fluid-filled, or hollow. Together, these three techniques provide a comprehensive approach to physical examination, enabling healthcare providers to gather critical information and make informed diagnoses. The other choices either include techniques that aren't typically grouped together in the context of a physical examination or omit one