Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Adult Health and Nutritional Assessment Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Adult Health and Nutritional Assessment related questions and content

During a comprehensive health assessment, which of the following structures can the nurse best assess by palpation?

  • A. Intestines
  • B. Gall bladder
  • C. Thyroid gland
  • D. Pancreas
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Many structures of the body, although not visible, may be assessed through the techniques of light and deep palpation. Examples include the superficial blood vessels, lymph nodes, thyroid gland, organs of the abdomen, pelvis, and rectum. The intestines, muscles, and pancreas cannot be assessed through palpation.