Final answer:
During a neck exam, documentation should include assessments of muscle strength, neck movements, pain levels, and any asymmetries that suggest muscle or nerve damage, as well as a review of movements controlled by the accessory nerve like flexing and structure examination like the jugular notch.
Step-by-step explanation:
Documentation of Neck Examination Findings
Findings documented under the Neck section of a physical exam typically include the evaluation of muscle strength, movement, and potential pain in the neck region. The strength of the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles is assessed by asking the patient to flex, extend, and laterally flex the neck or to shrug the shoulders against resistance. This tests the function of the accessory nerve, which controls movement of the head and neck. Observing any asymmetry in muscle strength could suggest damage to the muscles or associated nerves. Additionally, the presence of pain or discomfort during these movements would be documented, as neck pain is a common complaint and can be linked to muscular disorders.
For a comprehensive assessment, the evaluation may also consider the jugular notch and any signs of conditions such as spasmodic torticollis, where the neck is permanently tilted to one side. The function and orientation of the head, often influenced by the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), are significant in the overall assessment of neck health.
Understanding the role of the neck muscles outlined in figures such as Figure 11.14 and Figure 11.15, which depict the superficial and deep muscles responsible for movement, is crucial for proper examination and documentation.