Which abdominal quadrant do you Auscultate first?
Last updated: April 29, 2022 Show SummaryA fundamental part of physical examination is examination of the abdomen, which consists of inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. The examination begins with the patient in supine position, with the abdomen completely exposed. The skin and contour of the abdomen are inspected, followed by auscultation, percussion, and palpation of all quadrants. Depending on the findings or patient complaints, a variety of examination techniques and special maneuvers can provide additional diagnostic information. Suggested sequenceAuscultation of the abdomen should be performed prior to percussion and palpation, as physical manipulation of the abdomen may induce a change in bowel sounds. Palpation of the abdomen
Abdominal tenderness may be a sign of numerous conditions (see differential diagnosis of acute abdomen and differential diagnoses of abdominal pain). Special tests
Differential diagnoses of abdominal painReferences
Which abdominal quadrant should be Auscultate first?Start in the right upper quadrant, 10 centimeters below the rib margin in the mid-clavicular line. This should insure that you are below the liver edge. In general, it is easier to detect abnormal if you start in an area that you're sure is normal.
What is the order of abdominal auscultation?The abdominal examination consists of four basic components: inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. It is important to begin with the general examination of the abdomen with the patient in a completely supine position. The presence of any of the following signs may indicate specific disorders.
What is the proper sequence for abdominal assessment?The examination is conducted in a predetermined sequence starting from observation and then sequentially performing auscultation, palpation, and percussion (see images below) followed by ancillary maneuvers.
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