Final answer:
The correct sequence for a physical assessment excluding the abdomen is Inspection, Palpation, Percussion, and Auscultation. This order helps in conducting a thorough examination without altering the findings, especially important for auscultation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct order for completing a physical assessment, with the exception of the abdomen, is Inspection, Palpation, Percussion, Auscultation. This sequence allows for a thorough and least invasive examination, minimizing the potential to alter findings.
Inspection involves looking at the body for any obvious signs of health or disease. Palpation is the tactile examination to feel the body's organs or masses. Percussion involves tapping areas on the body to listen for sounds that indicate normalcy or abnormality, such as the presence of fluid or solid masses. Finally, Auscultation requires a stethoscope to listen to the sounds produced by the heart, lungs, and other organs.
When assessing the abdomen, the sequence changes to Inspection, Auscultation, Palpation, and Percussion to avoid influencing bowel sounds before they are heard.