ATI Physical Assessment (Adult) Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

ATI Physical Assessment (Adult) Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified Which technique is used to assess the size and consistency of the liver during a physical exam? Percussion and palpation During a cardiovascular assessment, which pulse site is commonly checked for strength and symmetry? Radial pulse What is the best method to assess a patient’s level of consciousness? Using the Glasgow Coma Scale or the AVPU scale (Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive) Which assessment finding indicates normal capillary refill time in adults? Less than 2 seconds What physical sign would suggest the presence of peripheral edema? Pitting or swelling of the lower extremities on palpation 2 When auscultating the lungs, where are vesicular breath sounds normally heard? Over most of the lung fields, especially peripheral areas How do you assess the abdomen for tenderness or guarding? By gently palpating all four quadrants and observing the patient’s facial expressions and guarding What does a bulging or asymmetrical abdomen suggest during inspection? Possible mass, organ enlargement, or abdominal distension Which test helps to evaluate cranial nerve function related to facial muscles? Asking the patient to smile, frown, and raise eyebrows What is the proper technique to assess for jugular vein distention? Position the patient at a 30- to 45-degree angle and inspect the neck Which physical sign is characteristic of cyanosis? 3 Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes What should be observed when inspecting a patient’s gait? Balance, rhythm, stride length, and any limp or abnormalities What is the significance of finding a positive Babinski reflex in an adult? It may indicate neurological dysfunction or upper motor neuron lesion How is tactile fremitus assessed during a respiratory exam? By palpating the chest wall while the patient repeats a phrase like “ninety-nine” What is the correct way to measure blood pressure manually? Using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope over the brachial artery with proper cuff size Which finding is normal during inspection of a healthy adult’s nails? Smooth, pink nail beds with a 160-degree angle between nail and skin What is the significance of a heart murmur heard during auscultation? 4 It may indicate turbulent blood flow due to valve abnormalities or defects Which part of the stethoscope is best for hearing high-pitched