Final answer:
The physical examination performed by a nurse usually includes an orderly assessment of body systems, starting with head and leading to extremities. The neurological exam is a significant part of the overall physical exam and assesses cranial nerve function, muscular strength, and sensory response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse usually performs a complete physical examination in an orderly manner to effectively assess the various systems of the body. This might include, but is not limited to, a neurological exam, which is a critical component in evaluating a patient's nervous system. The exam typically involves tasks such as asking the patient to smile, raise their eyebrows, stick out their tongue, and shrug their shoulders. These tasks help to assess the cranial nerves' function. Additionally, the neurologist will test muscular strength and the sensory system by applying resistance and using objects like a pen to gauge sensitivity across the limbs.
When discussing the order of examination, the answer to the question is not explicitly provided in the reference material. However, based on standard physical exam procedures, it could involve starting with the head, including the eyes and ears, followed by the chest (to assess heart and lungs), the abdomen, and then the extremities, such as the arms and legs.
The provided information also mentions specific parts of the neurological exam, like testing the hypoglossal nerve, which would be included in a cranial nerve examination. A patient's inability to feel the tip of a pen or experiencing pins and needles sensations indicates potential sensory system issues, which can be critical in guiding further diagnostic procedures like CT scans or determining treatments such as aspirin therapy to prevent blood clots.