Abdominal System
The abdominal system communicates with many other body systems making it challenging to assess. There are numerous vital organs contained within the abdominal cavity; when thoroughly assessed, abdominal symptoms, as described by the patient, provide valuable information related to potential organs involved and overall health status. It is helpful to divide the abdominal cavity into quadrants, understand which organ structures are in each quadrant, then use all four assessment techniques in the following order: inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Listening to the patient’s description of their abdominal symptoms provides valuable clues to the etiology of the patient concern.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Review the basic anatomy and physiology of the abdominal system
- Complete a comprehensive assessment of the abdominal system
- Understand the normal findings of an abdominal assessment
- Review common pathological signs and symptoms of abdominal dysfunction
- Learn appropriate documentation of assessment findings
- Practice and apply critical thinking skills through applicable case study review
