A Practical Guide to Health Assessment

This step-by-step, illustrated guide shows readers how to take a health history, perform a physical examination, and distinguish normal from abnormal findings. Chapters are arranged by body system, and each begins with a brief, but concise summary of that system's anatomy.Demonstrates how to conduct an effective health history with step-by-step tips and 2-colour multicultural illustrationsPresents specific questions to help readers obtain a comprehensive, subjective profile of the patient's overall physical appearance, behaviour, body development and movement, weight and height, vital signs, respirations and blood pressureHighlights specific pediatric and geriatric considerations for the physical exam, normal and abnormal findings, procedures and variations in findingsUses illustrations to aid the reader in reviewing anatomy and physiologyDistinguishes normal from abnormal findings with a 3-column comparative presentation of findingsOffers illustrated examples of various patient positions and guidance as to when to use a particular positioning methodIncludes lists of equipment needed for general survey and assessing each systeFocused Rapid Assessment boxes summarise presenting symptoms for 8 common complaints: headache, fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, change in mental status, abdominal pain, low back pain and dizzinessExpanded cultural content with highlighted cultural considerations, increased cultural competency and awareness Updated content throughout ensures clinical currencyStreamlined design makes more effective use of space and highlights key informationIcons highlight important content: Transcultural Considerations. Pediatric Considerations. Gertiatric Considerations. Focused Rapid Assessment boxes