Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the first step of an abdominal assessment?

1. Palpation

2. Auscultation

3. Inspection

4. Observation

The correct answer is: Inspection

The first step of an abdominal assessment is inspection. This initial phase involves visually examining the abdomen for any abnormalities, such as distension, asymmetry, or skin changes like rashes or lesions. During inspection, a care manager or healthcare provider looks for any signs that could indicate underlying medical conditions and gathers essential observational data that forms the basis for subsequent assessments. Inspection is crucial because it helps in identifying certain physical characteristics that can suggest gastrointestinal issues or other systemic problems. The visual clues gathered during this step inform the care manager on how to proceed with further assessments, such as palpation and auscultation, which require a more in-depth analysis of the abdominal organs and their functions. While palpation, auscultation, and observation are important components of the overall assessment process, they typically follow inspection in a structured abdominal examination. This sequence allows for a comprehensive and methodical approach to identifying and addressing patient concerns effectively.