Characteristics Measured by palpation table 30-5
Radial pulse palpation
is detected with the pads of the fingertips the most sensitive part of the hand
Blood vessels palpation measured (carotid or femoral artery
Plamar surface/pads of fingertips * pulse amplitude * elasticity * rate *rhythm
During deep palpation (4 cm (2 inches))
depress tissue to assess the condition of underlying organs
Skin palpation measured
dorsum of hand/ finger *temperature palmar surfaces *Moisture *Texture gasping with fingers *Turgor and elasticity *tenderness palmar surfaces *thickness
Organs palpation measured (liver and intestines
entire palmar surface of hand or palmar *size *shape surface of finger *absence of masses *tenderness
Auscultation
listening to sounds the body makes to detect variations from normal
Glands palpation measured (thyroid and lymph
pads of fingers * symmetry and mobility
Thorax palpation measured
palmar surface * excursion finger pads/palmar surface of fingers * tenderness Palmar or ulnar surface of entire hand * Fermitus
Percussion
tapping the skin with the fingertips to vibrate underlying tissue and organs to detect density and locate organs or masses, map their edges , and determine their size. Abnormal sounds suggest a mass or substances such as as air or fluid with in an organ or body cavity
dorsum of the hand detects by palpation
temperature variation in skin
skin is grasped with the fingertips (palpation) to assess
turgor
During light palpation gentle pressure against ( 1 cm (1/2 inch))
underlying skin and tissues can detect areas of irregularity and tenderness
bony part of the palm at the base of the fingers detects by palpation
vibrations