Final answer:
A PA must be aware of anatomic and physiologic changes associated with various conditions like pregnancy, seasonal changes, pneumonia, and PTSD, which are crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Physician Assistant (PA) must be aware of the anatomic and physiologic changes associated with various conditions, such as pregnancy, seasonal changes, diseases like pneumonia, and mental health conditions like posttraumatic stress disorder. During pregnancy, for instance, there are changes in organ systems that can lead to symptoms collectively known as the common discomforts of pregnancy. These include digestive and urinary system changes, among others. Understanding these changes is critical for health professionals in diagnosing and treating patients effectively. For conditions like pneumonia, altered breathing and gas exchange due to changes in lung compliance and resistance are vital considerations for a PA in the physical examination process.