Assessment Techniques
Assessment Techniques
Assessment Techniques
2. Palpation
• use of sense of touch
• WHAT TO PALPATE: size, position, and consistency of various body parts, such as lymph
nodes and breast
tissue
NURSING ALERT: Finger pads and the back of the hand are the most sensitive body parts used
for palpation!!!
• Types of palpation:
(a) Light palpation – detects superficial mass ( 1 “ depth )
(b) Deep palpation – palpates organ enlargement like liver, mass and pulsations ( 3 – 4” in
depth)
3. Percussion
• assess for vibration with the use of fingers
• The finger of one hand taps the finger of the other hand to generate vibration which can be
used to determine
a diagnostic sound.
Past Health History – any diseases and illness experienced in the past which includes childhood
illnesses and
immunization status, any recent surgeries, admission, or recurrent illnesses.
Family Health History – any hereditary condition which makes the client susceptible of
developing a disease.