NURS 289 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Nursing Assessment, Palpation, Stethoscope
27 Sep 2016
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A complete health assessment usually starts at the head and proceeds downward in a systematic manner (head to toe assessment: with children, always proceed from the least invasive or uncomfortable to the most invasive. Preparing the client: before the assessment, the nurse should explain when and where it will take place, why it is important, and what will happen during. Preparing the environment: environment should be warm, comfortable, well lit, and the equipment should be set up in systematic order. Positioning: several positions are required during a physical assessment. The assessment positions are organized so you can check multiple areas in one position, which limits the movement needed. Draping: drapes should be arranged so that the area to be assessed is exposed and other body areas are covered. Instrumentation: all equipment should be clean, in good working order, and readily accessible.
