1 Foundations of Focused Patient Assessment Free Online FlashCards

What is a focused patient assessment?

A purposeful, organized evaluation of the patient’s current concern, combining the patient’s account with observed and measured findings.

How do subjective and objective data differ?

Subjective data are what the patient reports; objective data are findings that are observed or measured.

What takes priority when a patient appears acutely unstable?

Address immediate threats and activate the appropriate response before continuing a routine assessment.

How should Standard Precautions guide assessment preparation?

Perform hand hygiene and select personal protective equipment according to expected exposure and any indicated precautions.

How should permission be handled during an examination?

Explain what you plan to do and why, then ask permission. Permission is ongoing, so pause if the patient is uncomfortable or withdraws it.

In PQRSTU, what does U prompt you to ask?

U stands for Understanding: ask what the patient thinks may be causing the symptom and what concerns them most.

How should a focused interview move from broad to specific questions?

Begin with open-ended questions, then ask specific questions to clarify important details.

How should vital signs be interpreted in a focused assessment?

Interpret vital signs alongside symptoms and appearance, not in isolation. Repeat a questionable or unexpected value using appropriate technique.

What determines the scope of the physical examination?

Examine the body systems most relevant to the concern and avoid unrelated maneuvers that do not help answer the clinical questions.

How should a patient’s report of “dizziness” be clarified?

Ask whether dizziness means spinning, light-headedness, or unsteadiness; clarify its onset, timing, triggers, and related symptoms.

What mobility precaution applies to an unsteady patient with dizziness?

Assist with movement if the patient is unsteady, and do not leave them to walk unsupported.

When should a patient be reassessed?

Reassess when the patient’s condition changes, after an intervention, or when a finding is unexpected.