Abdominal assessment
Definition
Abdominal assessment is a systematic method used to evaluate the health and function of the digestive organs within the abdomen. It involves inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation to identify any abnormalities.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- The four main techniques used in an abdominal assessment are inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation.
- During inspection, nurses look for visible signs such as distension, scars, or asymmetry.
- Auscultation involves listening to bowel sounds using a stethoscope to assess digestive activity.
- Percussion helps determine the presence of fluids, gases, or masses by tapping on the abdominal wall.
- Palpation is used to feel for tenderness, swelling, or organ enlargement by gently pressing on the abdomen.
Review Questions
- What are the four primary techniques used in an abdominal assessment?
- Why is auscultation performed before palpation during an abdominal assessment?
- What can be detected through percussion during an abdominal assessment?
"Abdominal assessment" appears in:
Related terms
Inspection: Visual examination of the abdomen for signs like distension or scars.
Auscultation: Listening to internal sounds of the body using a stethoscope.
Percussion: Tapping on a surface to determine underlying structures.
