Physical Examination: Techniques, Tools, and Diagnostic Role

Physical examination = systematic clinician assessment using senses and basic instruments.

Four Core Techniques

1. Inspection – visual survey (color, contour, movement, symmetry).
2. Palpation – tactile assessment (temperature, tenderness, masses, thrills, fremitus).
3. Percussion – tapping to elicit resonance (lung, abdomen, organ borders).
4. Auscultation – listening (heart, lungs, bowel, bruits) with stethoscope.

Common Instruments

• Ophthalmoscope (fundus), otoscope (ear), stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, thermometer, reflex hammer, tuning fork, Snellen chart, monofilament.

Diagnostic Value

Generates hypotheses, localizes pathology, guides test ordering, monitors treatment. “The eye does not see what the mind does not know” – structured approach essential.