HESI (Health and Environmental Sciences Institute) Health Assessment Practice Test

How should the nurse proceed when assessing a patient's abdomen by palpation?

1. Avoid palpating reported "tender" areas.

2. Quickly palpate a tender area to minimize discomfort.

3. Begin with deep palpation to encourage relaxation.

4. Start with light palpation to detect surface characteristics.

The correct answer is: Start with light palpation to detect surface characteristics.

Starting with light palpation to detect surface characteristics is the appropriate approach when assessing a patient's abdomen. This method allows the nurse to assess for tenderness, superficial masses, or other abnormalities without causing undue discomfort to the patient. Light palpation is less invasive and provides the patient an opportunity to relax, which can facilitate further assessment. By gently feeling the abdomen, the nurse can gather initial information about the patient's condition and determine if deeper palpation is necessary. This approach is particularly crucial when assessing a potentially tender area because it allows the nurse to identify any regions of discomfort before applying more pressure. Light palpation is essential in establishing trust and ensuring the patient feels comfortable throughout the examination. Deep palpation, while important for assessing deeper structures and organs, should be conducted after light palpation has been performed to first establish the patient's level of comfort and to identify any areas that may require special attention.