1. General assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's general appearance, skin color and condition, and hair and nails. Additionally, nurses will assess a patient's weight and height to calculate their body mass index (BMI).
2. Vital signs:
This includes taking a patient's temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure. These vital signs will give nurses important information about a patient's overall health status.
3. Head and neck assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's head for any bumps, bruises, or lumps. Additionally, nurses will check a patient's eyes and ears for any discharge or redness. Finally, nurses will assess a patient's throat for any swelling or redness.
4. Chest and lungs assessment:
This includes listening to a patient's chest with a stethoscope to check for any abnormal sounds. Additionally, nurses will assess a patient's breathing pattern and use a peak flow meter to check for any airflow obstruction.
5. Cardiovascular system assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's pulse and checking for any heart murmurs. Additionally, nurses will assess a patient's blood pressure and look for any signs of edema.
6. Gastrointestinal system assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's abdomen for any pain, tenderness, or masses. Additionally, nurses will listen to a patient's bowel sounds with a stethoscope and check for any signs of rectal bleeding. Finally, nurses will assess a patient's mouth for any sores or ulcers.
7. Genitourinary system assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's genitals and anus for any discharge, redness, or swelling. Additionally, nurses will assess a patient's urine for any abnormalities.
8. Musculoskeletal system assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's joints for any pain, tenderness, or swelling. Additionally, nurses will check a patient's muscles for any weakness or atrophy. Finally, nurses will assess a patient's range of motion and check for any joint deformities.
9. Neurological system assessment:
This includes assessing a patient's level of consciousness, pupillary response, and reflexes. Additionally, nurses will assess a patient's muscle strength and sensation. Finally, nurses will test a patient's coordination and balance.
10. Mental status:
This includes assessing a patient's orientation, memory, and judgment. Additionally, nurses will assess a patient's mood and affect. Finally, nurses will assess a patient's level of stress and anxiety.