Final answer:
Physical exams begin with taking the patient's medical history. This data helps healthcare professionals understand the patient's background and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in a physical exam is taking the patient's medical history. This involves gathering information about the patient's past and current health conditions, medications, allergies, and lifestyle habits. The purpose of collecting this data is to understand the patient's medical background, identify any risk factors or underlying conditions that may affect their health, and establish a baseline for comparison during the physical assessment.
The data obtained from the patient's medical history helps healthcare professionals determine the appropriate course of action, such as further diagnostic tests or referrals to specialists. It also helps in the accurate diagnosis of any existing health issues and facilitates the development of an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific needs.