MO
1-6.
ASSISTING WITH AN INFANT OR CHILD
a. Make every effort to get the child's cooperation during the examination. If the
child is too young or too ill to cooperate, use restraint when necessary. Position the child's
arms along side the body and wrap the child in a sheet or blanket. Stand on the opposite
side of the table from the examiner during the chest and abdominal examination. Hold the
child's arms above his head with one of your hands and his feet at the ankles with your
other hand.
b. The equipment used to examine an infant or child is the same as for adult
except some items are smaller.
1-7.
PHYSIOLOGICAL MEASUREMENTS ROUTINELY MADE
a. The patient's vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations), blood pressure,
height, and weight should be taken before the examination but 10 to 15 minutes after the
patient has rested.
b. Routine examinations such as complete blood count (CBC) with differential,
urinalysis, electrolytes, and chest x-ray are usually ordered. Complete the lab and x-ray
request slips with the patient's name, rank, social security number, date, and all other
required information.
c. Have the results from all lab tests available so that the health care provider can
observe/assess and be aware of any abnormal lab values.
1-8.
PURPOSES FOR DRAPING THE PATIENT DURING THE PHYSICAL EXAM
The patient should be drapped:
a. To prevent unnecessary exposure of the patient's body.
b. To help the patient relax--a patient who is embarrassed will be tense and less
c. To prevent chilling -- the drapes will provide warmth.
1-9.
EVALUATION OF A PATIENT'S CONDITION AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE
Your presence will be comforting for most patients. Some parts of the examination
may be uncomfortable or painful. Evaluate the patient's condition and his need for
assistance prior to the physical examination. Some factors to consider are:
a. Age. Elderly patients will probably need help getting to the examination room,
getting on the examination table and assuming certain positions. Infants and children will
MD0906
1-8