Utilizing critical reasoning and the nursing process, the student is expected to:
Demonstrate the techniques used during a physical assessment
Identify the purposes of the physical examination
Describe the four techniques used in a physical examination
Describe the elements of the general survey
Identify common and abnormal findings of the skin assessment to include color, moisture, temperature, texture, turgor, vascularity, and edema
Describe examination of the eyes , extraocular movements, and pupillary assessment (PERRLA)
Describe examination of the ears
Demonstrate correct procedure for examination of the structures of the mouth an oropharynx
Demonstrate assessment and auscultation of the lungs
Describe the 3 types of normal breath sounds and identify their anatomical locations
Identify the 4 types of adventitious breath sounds
Discuss the production of S-1, S-2 heart sounds
Describe the anatomic landmarks for assessment of the heart
Describe the correct technique to identify and assess the carotid arteries, jugular veins, and peripheral pulses
Identify how to assess for tissue perfusion
Discuss the order of techniques in assessment of the abdomen
Identify the areas of an abdominal assessment and the underlying structures
Describe normal and abnormal assessment findings observed during inspection of the abdomen
Identify the types and locations of bowel sounds during abdominal auscultation
Differentiate between the different types of palpation of the abdomen
Describe the use of palpation to identify a full bladder
Describe examination of the musculoskeletal system
Identify common postural abnormalities
Describe the assessment of the neurological system
Discuss the assessment of mental and emotional status, level of consciousness, behavior and appearance, language, and intellectual function
Identify normal and abnormal assessment findings of sensory and motor function
1. Review module objectives.
2. Learning Resources:
Potter, P. A., Perry, A. G., Stockert, P. A., Hall, A. M., & Ostendorf, W. R. (2025). Fundamentals of nursing (12th ed.). Elsevier.
Chapter 16 Nursing Assessment, pp. 226-243
Chapter 30 Health Assessment and Physical Examination, pp. 552-625
3. Complete Critical Thinking Exercises:
Physical Assessment Student Learning Guide
4. Supplemental Learning:
See Bb
5. Review module objectives and check for knowledge gaps.
6. Go to the Evolve website and review the module content and practice questions.