For the examination of the respiratory system:
-
Look to see if the patient:
- Is cachectic
- Is breathless
- Is sitting forward using accessory muscles of respiration
- Has nasal flaring
- Has intercostal recession on inspiration
- Count the respiratory rate
- Note chest wall movement – is it symmetrical?
- Inspect the chest for surgical scars
Respiratory system examination
Examine the respiratory system:
- Look for clubbing of hands (bronchial carcinoma,
chronic lung suppuration, fibrosing alveolitis, mesothelioma)
- Peripheral or central cyanosis?
- Feel the trachea (is it central?)
- Assess chest expansion (use hands)
-
Auscultate the chest:
- Ask the patient to breath in and out while you listen (not too
deep or fast)
- Listen and feel for the nature and symmetry of the sound
- Listen for change in intensity or change in nature e.g.
bronchial (high pitched or blowing) and symmetry
- Listen for added sounds e.g. wheeze, crackles or a rub