Select the sequence of techniques used during an examination of the abdomen.
Percussion, inspection, palpation, auscultation.
Inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation.
Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation.
Auscultation, inspection, palpation, percussion.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Percussion, inspection, palpation, auscultation: This sequence could disturb bowel sounds by percussing before auscultation, making it difficult to assess them accurately.
B. Inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation: Palpating before auscultating can alter bowel sounds, so it’s not the correct order.
C. Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation: This sequence is recommended for abdominal assessment to avoid altering bowel sounds. Inspection is done first to observe any visible abnormalities, followed by auscultation to listen to bowel sounds before palpating or percussing, which could disrupt the sounds.
D. Auscultation, inspection, palpation, percussion: Inspection should always be first, making this option incorrect as it begins with auscultation.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. At the symphysis pubis: When the bladder is distended, it typically extends upward from the symphysis pubis. Therefore, the nurse should start palpation here to assess for bladder distention.
B. In the left lower quadrant: This location would be used to assess for structures like the descending colon or potential masses, not the bladder.
C. At the umbilicus: The bladder does not typically reach the umbilical region unless it is severely distended, making this less effective as a starting point.
D. In the right lower quadrant: This area is primarily used to assess structures such as the appendix or ascending colon, not the bladder.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Percussion, inspection, palpation, auscultation: This sequence could disturb bowel sounds by percussing before auscultation, making it difficult to assess them accurately.
B. Inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation: Palpating before auscultating can alter bowel sounds, so it’s not the correct order.
C. Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation: This sequence is recommended for abdominal assessment to avoid altering bowel sounds. Inspection is done first to observe any visible abnormalities, followed by auscultation to listen to bowel sounds before palpating or percussing, which could disrupt the sounds.
D. Auscultation, inspection, palpation, percussion: Inspection should always be first, making this option incorrect as it begins with auscultation.