The general physical examination provides substantial information
about a patient's overall health status and assists
the physician in making a diagnosis, prognosis, and
treatment plan. The general physical examination is the
cornerstone of medical care. The physician uses a number of assessment methods
to gather information during the examination. Although
one common order of examination is presented in this
chapter, you should learn the order preferred by the physician(
s) you assist. Be aware, too, that a physician may
change the order of an examination to accommodate the
needs of a particular patient. During the examination, your first priority as a medical
assistant is to address the comfort, privacy, and educational
needs of the patient. You must also anticipate the
needs of the physician throughout the procedure. In addition,
you must be aware of the special needs of children,
pregnant women, and the elderly and the areas in which
patient education is likely to be needed. This pill case allows the elderly patient
to keep weekly track of medications to be taken at different
times of the day. |