Fundamentals HESI Related

Review Fundamentals HESI related questions and content

During an abdominal assessment for an adult client, what is the correct sequence of steps?

  • A. Inspect, Auscultate, Percuss, Palpate
  • B. Palpate, Percuss, Inspect, Auscultate
  • C. Auscultate, Inspect, Percuss, Palpate
  • D. Percuss, Palpate, Inspect, Auscultate
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct sequence for an abdominal assessment in an adult client is to first Inspect the abdomen for any visible abnormalities, then Auscultate to listen for bowel sounds, followed by Percussion to assess for organ size and presence of fluid or masses, and finally Palpation to feel for tenderness, masses, or organ enlargement. Choice A, 'Inspect, Auscultate, Percuss, Palpate,' is the correct sequence for an abdominal assessment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not follow the recommended sequence of assessment. Palpation should be the last step as it can potentially alter bowel sounds and percussion findings if done before. This deviation can lead to missing important findings or inaccurate assessment results.