Physical Examination

A Physical Examination (pronunciation: /ˈfɪzɪkəl ɪgˈzæmɪˌneɪʃən/) is a routine procedure performed by a Healthcare professional to check a person's overall health and to identify any potential medical conditions. The term originates from the Latin words 'physica', meaning 'natural science', and 'examinare', meaning 'to investigate'.

A physical examination typically involves a series of tests, which may vary depending on the patient's age, sex, and health history. It is an essential part of any Doctor-patient relationship, providing valuable information about the patient's health status and any potential risk factors.

Components of a Physical Examination

A physical examination may include the following components:

Vital signs: These include measurements of body temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure.
General Appearance: This involves an assessment of the patient's overall appearance, including factors such as body habitus, hygiene, and demeanor.
Skin Examination: This involves checking the skin for any abnormalities, such as rashes, lesions, or discoloration.
Head and Neck Examination: This includes an examination of the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and neck.
Cardiovascular Examination: This involves listening to the heart sounds and checking the peripheral pulses.
Respiratory Examination: This involves listening to the lung sounds and assessing the patient's breathing.
Abdominal Examination: This involves palpating the abdomen to check for any abnormalities.
Neurological Examination: This involves assessing the patient's nervous system, including reflexes, strength, and sensation.
Musculoskeletal Examination: This involves assessing the patient's muscles, bones, and joints.

Importance of Physical Examination

A physical examination is crucial for several reasons. It allows the healthcare professional to gather information about the patient's health, which can help in diagnosing any potential medical conditions. It also provides an opportunity for the healthcare professional to educate the patient about their health and to discuss any necessary preventive measures.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Physical Examination
Wikipedia's article - Physical Examination

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Physical Examination