Respiratory Checklist Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are the components of the Introduction step in a respiratory exam?
Hand wash/rub, introduce self, explain purpose, obtain consent, position and expose patient appropriately.
What should you observe in the General Inspection step?
General observation (cough, posture, breathing pattern, accessory muscle use), body habitus, color, bedside chart/vitals.
What signs should you examine in the Hands and Upper Limb step?
Peripheral cyanosis, clubbing, tar stains, intrinsic muscle wasting/weakness, flapping tremor.
What vital signs are recorded in the Perform Vital Signs step?
Radial pulse, respiratory rate, comment on BP measurement and pulsus paradoxus (not required to perform BP).
What should you look for in the Face examination?
Eyes (Horner’s Syndrome signs), sinus tenderness, oral exam (teeth, gums, palate, tonsils, plaques), cyanosis, cough.
What are the components of the Neck – Lymph Nodes and Trachea exam?
Tracheal position, tracheal tug, cervical lymph nodes.
What should be assessed during Chest Inspection?
Shape, symmetry, deformities, and scars (both anterior and posterior chest).
What is important in the Chest Expansion step?
Assess anterior and posterior expansion, clear patient instructions, proper technique for movement estimation.
Only comment on anterior expansion – not required to perform.
What are key points in Percussion of the thorax?
Assess anterior, lateral, and posterior thorax; audible percussion notes; symmetrical, anatomically correct placement.
What is involved in Auscultation?
Auscultate anterior, lateral, and posterior thorax; clear instructions; avoid hyperventilation; correct diaphragm placement.
What is assessed in the Resonance (Bronchophony) step?
Coverage of thorax (ant/lat/post), symmetrical and anatomically correct diaphragm placement.
What actions conclude the respiratory examination?
Thank the patient, allow them to re-dress, perform hand rub/hand wash.
