apical & basal chest expansion

Question 1

how to perform - apical

Answer 1

prep environment, contraindications, informed consent, patient details, wash hands, position patient, arms out, tape around chest wall in line with the axilla, mark on sternum, hold with 1 hand, arms down
Check tape measure is level at back, as high as possible, measure max expiration, then inspiration, calculate difference, repeat x3 with mark
document

Question 2

basal

Answer 2

Measuring point on xiphoid process

Question 3

contraindications

Answer 3

MSK: thoracic trauma
CR: acute resp condition
CV: unstable cardiac problems
N:
vomiting/nausea/vertigo

Question 4

purpose

Answer 4

Simple, low cost, non-invasive technique to measure the expansion capacity of the thorax
explore cause of breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance, abnormal lung function

Question 5

principles

Answer 5

Repeat 3 times, same measuring points
Take highest measure
Tape measure level/straight
Measurement at full expiration and full inspiration

Question 6

how to know if normal

Answer 6

compare to normal average values for circumferential Chest Expansion (cm)
18-24 female - 5.5cm mean

Question 7

structures

Answer 7

evaluating health of respiratory system and capability of respiration - Lungs, Ribs, Sternum, Vertebral column , intercostal muscles