Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Test

When performing an abdominal assessment, the nurse should follow which examination sequence?

1. Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation

2. Auscultation, inspection, percussion, palpation

3. Palpation, auscultation, percussion, inspection

4. Percussion, palpation, auscultation, inspection

The correct answer is: Auscultation, inspection, percussion, palpation

During an abdominal assessment, the nurse should follow the sequence of auscultation, inspection, percussion, and palpation. This sequence is important as auscultation should be done before palpation and percussion to not alter any bowel sounds that may occur after touching or pressing on the abdomen. Additionally, inspection should come before percussion and palpation to observe any visible signs or abnormalities such as distension, scars, or bruising before further assessing the area. This order helps ensure a thorough and accurate assessment.