Final answer:
Assessing for an inguinal hernia involves a physical exam where the healthcare provider inspects and palpates the inguinal region, often asking the patient to cough or strain to make any hernia more noticeable. The inguinal canal is also examined by touch, and imaging studies may be used if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
To assess for an inguinal hernia, a healthcare professional will perform a physical examination which includes different techniques. First, the patient is usually asked to stand, and the examiner will look for any obvious bulge in the inguinal region. Afterward, the examiner will palpate the area to feel for any abnormalities. The patient may be asked to cough or strain during this process, as these actions can make a hernia more prominent.
If a hernia is not initially visible or palpable, an examination with the patient lying down may be conducted. The examiner will insert a finger into the inguinal canal (for males, this is where the spermatic cord passes, and in females, it is where the round ligament of the uterus is located). The patient will then be instructed to cough or strain once more, as the increase in intra-abdominal pressure can cause the hernia to protrude and be felt by the examiner's finger. In some cases, imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan might be ordered for further evaluation if the physical examination is inconclusive. However, the physical examination remains the standard method for the assessment of an inguinal hernia.