Skills Module 3.0: Comprehensive Physical Assessment of an Adult Posttest Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Skills Module 3.0: Comprehensive Physical Assessment of an Adult Posttest Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified During a physical assessment, the nurse palpates the abdomen of a client. What should the nurse assess for? The presence of tenderness, swelling, and masses. When performing a physical assessment of the respiratory system, what is the nurse's primary goal? To assess the rate, rhythm, and depth of breathing. In a comprehensive physical assessment, the nurse inspects the client's skin. What is the nurse looking for? Signs of bruising, rashes, or lesions that might indicate underlying conditions. When checking for a pulse, how should the nurse assess the radial pulse? By placing two fingers over the radial artery at the wrist and counting the beats for 30 seconds, then multiplying by two. 2 What is the most appropriate action when assessing a client's blood pressure manually? Inflate the cuff to 20-30 mmHg above the client's usual systolic pressure to ensure an accurate reading. During a cardiovascular assessment, the nurse listens for heart sounds. What is the best position for a client to be in? The client should be lying down with the head of the bed elevated slightly to allow for better auscultation. When assessing the gastrointestinal system, how should the nurse proceed with palpation of the abdomen? Palpate lightly in all four quadrants, starting from the lower right quadrant, to assess for tenderness or masses. While conducting an assessment of the musculoskeletal system, the nurse tests the range of motion in the shoulder. What is the appropriate action? Ask the client to move the shoulder through flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation, and note any pain or limitation. 3 In the assessment of the neurological system, what is the purpose of checking the client’s pupillary response? To assess the function of the optic and oculomotor nerves by observing the reaction to light and accommodation. When assessing a client’s lymphatic system, what is the nurse evaluating? The size and consistency of lymph nodes, checking for any enlargement or tenderness, which could indicate infection. During a physical assessment, when auscultating the lungs, what does the nurse listen for? Normal breath sounds such as vesicular, bronchial, and bronchovesicular sounds, and any abnormal sounds like crackles or wheezes.