Abdominal Physical Exam Review – 90+ Verified Q&As on Inspection, Palpation, Auscultation – H&P II

This document is a comprehensive, exam-focused review of abdominal physical examination techniques, aligned with the 2025/2026 curriculum for H&P II (History & Physical Exam II). It contains 90+ clinically validated questions and answers, covering all core components of the abdominal exam including inspection, auscultation, palpation, percussion, and special maneuvers for diagnostic evaluation. Students will review detailed assessments such as contour types (scaphoid, distended, protuberant), vascular signs (caput medusa), bowel sound interpretations, and organ-specific palpation methods (liver, spleen, kidney, bladder). The document also explains key clinical signs used in emergency or differential diagnosis: Murphy’s sign, Rovsing’s sign, Psoas and Obturator signs, Lloyd’s punch, and ascites assessment techniques like fluid wave and shifting dullness. This guide is especially valuable for: Medical students (pre-clinical and clinical) Nursing students (BSN, RN, MSN) Physician Assistant students Physical exam skill assessments (OSCEs) USMLE Step 1/2 and clinical rotation prep in internal medicine, family medicine, and surgery Each entry includes not just the correct answer but clinical relevance, making it useful for memorization and understanding of physical findings in real patients. Aligned with current standards for physical exam instruction, it is ideal for both practical training and written exam success. Keywords: abdominal exam, physical exam, inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation, bowel sounds, liver span, murphy's sign, psoas sign, rovsing's sign, obturator sign, ascites, fluid wave, CVA tenderness, rebound tenderness, guarding, rigidity, cholecystitis, appendicitis, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, abdominal aneurysm, bladder palpation, Lloyd’s punch