ATI Capstone Fundamentals Assessment Proctored Related

Review ATI Capstone Fundamentals Assessment Proctored related questions and content

A healthcare provider is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment. What action should the healthcare provider take first?

  • A. Inspect the abdomen
  • B. Auscultate bowel sounds
  • C. Palpate the abdomen
  • D. Percuss the abdomen
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action in a routine abdominal assessment is to inspect the abdomen. This allows the healthcare provider to visually assess for any visible abnormalities such as scars, distention, or masses. Auscultating bowel sounds comes after inspection as the second step to assess bowel motility. Palpation and percussion follow in the sequence of a comprehensive abdominal assessment. Therefore, inspecting the abdomen is the priority to gather initial information before proceeding with further assessment techniques.