Module 8: Techniques For Objective Data

Question 1

How do you confirm symmetrical chest expansion?

Answer 1

Placing hands on patients posterolateral chest wall, with thumbs at T9 or T10. Slide hands medially to pick up a small fold of skin between your thumbs.
Ask patient to take a deep breath, thumbs should move apart symmetrically

Question 2

How do you assess tactile fremitus?

Answer 2

Use ball of fingers or the ulnar edge of one of your hands, and touch patient’s chest while patient repeats “99”

Question 3

Fremitus is most prominent between where?

Answer 3

The scapulae and around the sternum, sites where the major bronchi are closest to the chest wall.