Lab #2 Flashcards
palpation definition
the application of the fingers to the surface of the skin or other tissues, using varying amounts of pressure, to selectively determine the condition of the parts underneath
why does palpation tell you about the patient’s overall health?
the external and internal body are highly intergrated. Abnormalities in tissues can reflect their structure and function.
What kind of information can you get from palpation?
temperature, surface features (hair, lesions, scars, perspiration), texture, turgor, shape, size, tone, thickness, density, tension, motion or lack of (restriction), edema (swelling), tenderness, spaces
benefits of palpation
no cutting tissue, can help you decide if additional testing is needed, patient friendly (reflects diligence, caring, builds trust, calming effect)
layer by layer palpation
go from superficial to deep: above skin, skin, subcutaneous, vessels, deep fascia, muscle (myotendinous junction, tendon), ligament, bone, viscera (ie organ, when applicable)
what skin would make the skin drag test invalid?
excessive moisture or oily skin
what is turgor?
the elastic rebound of skin
where is the subcutaneous layer
underneath the skin, contains fat, connective tissue, veins, and fascia
what can you feel in the subcutaneous layer
should have a normal spongy feel that you contact with light pressure
abnormal might have fluid, masses, mechanical devices
where is the deep fascia?
just above the muscle
what can you feel in the deep fascia layer?
could feel smooth, continuous, firm, tough with medium pressure
can feel thickened after trauma, infection, or surgery
what can you feel in the muscle layer?
use medium pressure to feel muscle fibers, tendons, ligaments, and deeper to feel bone
how to palpate bone layer?
use light/medium pressure for areas that have a thin overlaying tissue; use firm pressure for areas with thicker overlying soft tissues
follow the contour of the bone and pay attention to joint spaces
the area of the forearm proximal to the wrist is called the ? surface
volar surface of the forearm
