Assessing the Abdomen /Gastrointestinal System
It is important to begin the assessment by obtaining a thorough history of abdominal or gastrointestinal complaints. You will need to elicit information about any complaints of gastrointestinal disease or disorders. Gastrointestinal disease can have various signs and symptoms, including change in appetite, weight gain or loss, dysphagia, intolerance to certain foods, nausea and vomiting, change in bowel habits, and abdominal pain (Jarvis, 2016).NURS 6512 Week 6 Essay Assignment
Physical examination techniques should be used in an organized manner from least disturbing or invasive to most invasive to the patient (Jarvis, 2016). Inspection is first, as it is non-invasive. Auscultation is performed following inspection; the abdomen should be auscultated before percussion or palpation to prevent production of false bowel sounds.