NURS 190 – Physical Assessment (2026/2027) Practice Questions with Correct Answers

NURS 190 – Physical Assessment
(2026/2027)
Practice Questions with Correct Answers


1. The correct sequence of physical assessment (IPPA) is:

A. Palpation, Inspection, Percussion, Auscultation
B. Inspection, Palpation, Percussion, Auscultation
C. Inspection, Auscultation, Percussion, Palpation
D. Auscultation, Inspection, Palpation, Percussion
Answer: B




2. The exception to IPPA is the abdominal assessment,
where the correct order is:

A. Palpation first
B. Auscultation before palpation
C. Percussion first
D. Inspection last
Answer: B

,Rationale: Bowel sounds must be heard before
manipulation.




3. Subjective data refers to:

A. Measurable findings
B. Patient’s verbal reports
C. Lab results
D. Vital signs
Answer: B




4. Objective data includes:

A. Pain level
B. Dizziness report
C. Blood pressure reading
D. Nausea feeling
Answer: C




5. The primary purpose of a general survey is to:

,A. Diagnose disease
B. Form a quick overall impression of the patient
C. Replace physical exam
D. Give medication
Answer: B




6. The best part of the hand used to assess temperature is:

A. Fingertips
B. Dorsal surface
C. Palm
D. Ulnar border
Answer: B




7. The part of the hand best for vibration is:

A. Fingertips
B. Dorsal surface
C. Ulnar surface
D. Palm
Answer: C

, 8. The diaphragm of the stethoscope is used for:

A. Low-pitched sounds
B. High-pitched sounds
C. Vibration
D. Percussion
Answer: B




9. The bell of the stethoscope is best for:

A. High-pitched sounds
B. Low-pitched sounds
C. Skin temperature
D. Reflexes
Answer: B




10. Normal adult respiratory rate is:

A. 8–10/min
B. 12–20/min
C. 22–28/min