A general examination of the respiratory system

A general examination of the respiratory system involves a systematic assessment of the various components involved in breathing and oxygen exchange. Here's an overview of the key elements typically evaluated during a respiratory examination: 1. Patient History: Begin by gathering relevant information about the patient's medical history, including any respiratory conditions, allergies, exposure to environmental toxins, smoking history, and previous surgeries or treatments. 2. Observation: Observe the patient for signs of respiratory distress, such as abnormal breathing patterns, use of accessory muscles, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin or lips), and the presence of a persistent cough. 3. Vital Signs: Measure the patient's vital signs, including respiratory rate (number of breaths per minute), heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature. Abnormalities in these measurements may indicate respiratory compromise. 4. Inspection: Examine the patient's face, neck, ...