Respiratory Chest Examination

Question 1

Does the Respiratory Chest Examination Require general exam?

Answer 1

No

Question 2

Introduction:

Answer 2

-Wash hands and don ppe
-Introduction
-Confirm name and DOB
-Gain consent and explain the examination

Question 3

Inspection

Answer 3

(what can you see? )
-RR
-Shape of chest and symmetry on breathing
-Movement of chest inspiring and on expiration
-Evidence of scars
-Trachea- deviation > tension pneumothorax (deviates to the opposite side)

Question 4

What steps are involved in the Respiratory Chest Examination?

Answer 4

-Introduction- and safety netting
-Inspection of general state
-Palpation
-Percussion
-Auscultation
-Closure

Question 5

Percussion

Answer 5

-Percuss both lung fields
*alternate on each side comparing, at intercostal spaces) !!!!!!!!!-important

-PERCUSSION use index finger and MUST percuss horizontally (this is the way pnemunia spreads)
-compare each side

-Percuss axillary region
-Lung apices- top (above 1st rib)

Question 6

Palpation or Percussion first?

Answer 6

Palpation

Question 7

Palpation:

Answer 7

-palpate for tracheal deviation- tension pneumothorax
-Assess chest expansion- expiration and inspiration (Supro-posteriorly)

Question 8

Auscultation

Answer 8

*Listen to the lungs on full inspiration and then expiration!!
-Alternate and compare right and left sides

Start at the apices of the lungs and work your way down.
-Ausculate the axillary region and the posterior (back) too