PHYSICAL+EXAMINATION+SKILLS

the 4 physical examination skills are: Inspection- this involves inspecting (viewing) the body for things like abnormal movements, any swelling, abnormal pulsation etc. Palpation- this involves the use of touch to feel for size, temperature, tenderness etc Percussion- this involves striking a finger over another while it is over a body surface to determine the underlying structure. Auscultation- listening to body sounds e.g. with a stethoscope

Physical examination is part of objective data. Subjective data is information that can only be collected by the patient eg interview