Final answer:
The neurological exam and physical examinations performed by health care professionals encompass various methods to assess the neurological functions of a patient and the health of specific body systems. This includes the assessment of the mental and cranial nerve functions, sensory and motor responses, and coordination. The physical exam also includes detailed inspection and evaluation of various parts of the body, such as the head, chest, heart, and abdomen.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neurological Exam
Health care professionals, including nurses, perform various physical examinations to assess a patient's neurological functions and overall health. In the neurological exam, the nurse may inspect the oral cavity and pharynx for signs of infection and to evaluate the function of cranial nerves. This is just one component of the comprehensive neurological exam, which also includes the mental status exam, assessing memory, language, and emotion; the sensory and motor exams focused on spinal cord functions; and the coordination exam which examines cerebellar function in movements.
Physical Exams
For a thorough physical examination, the nurse would systematically examine the head, face, and neck; skin, hair, and nails; eyes and ears; breasts and armpits; as well as perform a cardiovascular evaluation, and assess the chest, lungs, and abdomen. Each area requires specific techniques, such as palpation, auscultation, and inspection, to detect any abnormalities or signs of disease. Additionally, a nurse uses medical history and other diagnostic tools to inform their assessment.
Specific Assessment Techniques
For instance, to assess the head and neck, the nurse would check for symmetry, masses, and tenderness. A cardiovascular evaluation involves listening to the heart's sounds to identify murmurs or irregular rhythms. The assessment of the chest and lungs would include checking breathing patterns, and lung sounds, and evaluating for any signs of respiratory distress.