Abdominal Assessment

Question 1

Correct order of Abdominal Assessment:

Answer 1

Inspection
Auscultation
Palpation
Percussion

Question 2

P.Q.R.S.T assessment score is useful to explore patients presenting symptoms: WHAT DOES THE ACRONYM STAND FOR?

Answer 2

P- Precipitating factors
Q- Quality
R- Radiation 
S- Signs and symptoms
T- Time of onset

Question 3

Precipitating Factors

Answer 3

• Have you experienced anything recently that could account for the onset of pain?
• Have you fallen etc?

Question 4

Quality

Answer 4

• Is the pain sharp or dull

- Is there a stabbing sensation?

Question 5

Radiation

Answer 5

• Is the pain constant or does it move around

- Where does it hurt now?

Question 6

Signs and Symptoms

Answer 6

• Have you had any nausea/vomiting

- Have you fainted

Question 7

Time of onset

Answer 7

• How long has the pain been like this?

- Does it go away or is it constant?

Question 8

AA: Inspection (What to inspect)

Answer 8

• Contour
• Symmetry
• Umbilicus
• Skin colour
• Pulsation/movement
• Rashes
• Scars, bruises or lesions
• Signs of pain and discomfort
• Bloating

Question 9

AA: Auscultation: Why do we commence before percussion/Palpation?

Answer 9

Commence before percussion/palpation→ they can increase peristalsis

Question 10

AA: Auscultation: Quadrants are auscultated in sequence (1 is first, 4 is last)

Answer 10

1- Right Lower
2- Right Upper
3- Left Upper
4- Left Lower

Question 11

AA: Auscultation: Sounds heard

Answer 11

It may take up to 5 mins for bowel sounds to be heard

2 distinct sounds indicate

• Hyperactive sounds→ increased motility
• Hypoactive sounds→ Inflammation of peritoneum (follows abdominal surgery)

Question 12

AA: Percussion

Answer 12

• Provides clues to what area or organ may be affected

- If pain in right lower quadrant; start at left lower quadrant

Question 13

AA: Palpation

Answer 13

• Start away from site of pain

- To complete assessment; obtain a urine sample for urinalysis and check for pregnancy in women