Which assessment step is performed first in a physical examination?

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Multiple Choice

Which assessment step is performed first in a physical examination?

Explanation:
Starting with inspection means visually surveying the patient to gather baseline information about general appearance, behavior, and evident signs (such as facial expression, posture, symmetry, skin color, breathing pattern, and distress). This noninvasive step sets the scene for the rest of the exam and helps you identify areas that need closer evaluation. By looking first, you collect essential data without altering findings through touching or listening, which can influence what you later observe or hear. After this initial visual survey, you proceed with the other assessment methods to explore whatever you noticed or to confirm baseline status.

Starting with inspection means visually surveying the patient to gather baseline information about general appearance, behavior, and evident signs (such as facial expression, posture, symmetry, skin color, breathing pattern, and distress). This noninvasive step sets the scene for the rest of the exam and helps you identify areas that need closer evaluation. By looking first, you collect essential data without altering findings through touching or listening, which can influence what you later observe or hear. After this initial visual survey, you proceed with the other assessment methods to explore whatever you noticed or to confirm baseline status.

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