NUR1 239 Chapter Notes - Chapter 10: Vascular Resistance, Korotkoff Sounds, Circadian Rhythm
Document Summary
Chapter 10: general survey, measurement, and vital signs. The general survey is your overall impression of the patient and begins when you first encounter him or her. It covers four areas: physical appearance, body structure, mobility, and behaviour. In this area, obvious physical deformities are noted: mobility is concerned with gait and range of motion, behaviour considers facial expression, mood and affect, speech, dress, and personal hygiene. Several developmental considerations apply to the general survey: for a child, also observe interactions with the accompanying adult. Unexpected behaviour on the part of the adult or child may be clues to child abuse, mental illness, or a developmental disability or disorder: for an older adult, be aware that posture, appearance, and mobility may change. By the eighth decade, spinal flexion may occur as well as an angulation of features and a redistribution of body proportions. The gait may have a wider base to compensate for changes in balance.
