The nurse is preparing to conduct an abdominal assessment on a client and realizes that this assessment should be performed in the order of:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct order for an abdominal assessment is inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Inspection should come first to observe any visible abnormalities. Auscultation should be performed second to listen for bowel sounds. Percussion can help identify the presence of fluid or gas-filled spaces. Palpation should be the last step to avoid altering bowel sounds or causing discomfort to the client. This order follows the standard of care for abdominal assessments.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Conduct an Abdominal Assessment on a Client