Nose, Mouth, Throat Assessment

Nose Assessment

• • Ask client if they have ever had a broken nose or jaw. If yes, ascertain how long ago and if they are able to breath effectively via each nostril.

  • Have the client place one finger on the side of their nose.

  • Ask them to breath in and out.

  • Listen for normal air entry and exit.

  • Note down any abnormalities.

  • Palpate sinuses gently.

Mouth Assessment

• • Assess for missing teeth.

  • Presence of wisdom teeth.

  • Evidence of decay.

  • Evidence of gum disease (normal gums should be pink and tight around teeth).

  • Abnormalities of the tongue (should be pink and rough, no patches).

  • Abnormalities of the upper palate and under tongue (should be pink, smooth, no lesions).

  • Abnormalities of the lips.

  • Piercings.

Throat Assessment

• • Using tongue depress visualise the back of the throat and assess for abnormalities

  • Perform palpation of the throat (lymph nodes, thyroid).