Which Principles Apply When Performing a Focused Assessment of the Abdomen

question 26

Multiple Choice

Which principles apply when performing a focused assessment of the abdomen? Select all that apply.

• A)Ask the patient to empty bladder prior to the assessment.
• B)Follow the assessment sequence of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.
• C)Position the patient in the supine position, with knees slightly flexed.
• D)Begin palpating with light pressure to detect surface characteristics, and move to deep palpation.
• E)Examine painful areas first to minimize discomfort.

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Definitions:

Scapula

The flat, triangular bone located on the upper back, commonly known as the shoulder blade, which connects the humerus with the clavicle.

Clavicle

A lengthy bone acting as a support link between the scapula and the sternum, commonly referred to as the collarbone.

Deltoid Muscle

A large, triangular muscle covering the shoulder joint and used for lifting and rotating the arm.

Anterior Cervical Triangle

An anatomical area of the neck outlined by the mandible, the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and the midline of the neck.