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This article describes the basics of a head-to-toe assessment which is a vital aspect of nursing. It should be done each time you encounter a patient for the first time each shift (or visit, for home care, clinic or office nurses). This assessment includes assessment of the physical, emotional and mental aspects of all body systems as well as the environmental and social issues affecting the patient. The nurse needs to observe for all of these factors and ask questions as needed. Difficulty: Average Time Required: Approximately 10-20 minutes
2. HEENT/Neuro:
Head: Shape and symmetry; condition of hair and scalp Eyes: Conjunctiva and sclera, pupils; reactivity to light and ability to follow your finger or a light Ears: Hearing aids, pain? Speak in a whisper: can he hear you and comprehend? Turn away to make sure he isnt reading your lips. Nose: Drainage, congestion, difficulty breathing, sense of smell Throat and Mouth: Mucous membranes, any lesions, teeth or dentures, odor, swallowing, trachea, lymph nodes, tongue
4. Skin:
As you examine all body systems you need to make note of the status of the Integumentary System for any breaks in the skin, scars, lesions, wounds, redness, or irritation. Assess the turgor, color, temperature and moisture of the skin.
5. Thoracic region:
Assess lung and cardiac sounds from the front and back. Assess them for character and quality as well as for the presence or absence of appropriate sounds. Palpate the chest wall and breasts for any tenderness or lumps.
6. Abdomen:
Listen to bowel sounds throughout the 4 quadrants. Palpate for tenderness or lumps. Palpate the bladder. Ask about intake and output of bowels and bladder. Ask about appetite. Asses genitalia for tenderness, lumps or lesions.
7. Extremities:
Assess for temperature, capillary fill and ROM. Palpate for pulses. Note any edema, lesions, lumps or pain.
8. General Questions:
Ask the patient how he feels. Has anything changed recently? Any pain, burning, SOB, chest pains, change in bowel or bladder habits/function, change in sleep habits, cough, discharge from any orifice, depression, sadness, or change in appetite?