Chapter 10 – Respiratory System Assessment
Key Takeaways
- Common symptoms to assess related to the respiratory system include dyspnea, coughing, wheezing, congestion, and chest pain.
- The objective assessment of the thorax is best performed on the client in an upright position on the bare skin.
- A trauma-informed approach to the objective assessment is necessary considering that areas of the chest are being exposed.
- The objective assessment should begin with a brief scan combined with components of the primary survey so that potential signs of clinical deterioration are recognized and acted upon.
- Following the brief scan, the objective assessment includes inspection, auscultation, palpation, and percussion.
- Health promotion interventions should be developed with the client to address what is important to them.
