OBSERVATION

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OBSERVATION
Observation
Defined as the act of taking notice of

something. It is based upon one's

knowledge, interest, and attention.

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Importance of observation in nursing

 It is a chance to know the patients and to

understand the condition of their physical,
mental, and spiritual well being.

 Through observation, any changes in the

condition of the patients, improvement or
regression, may be detected.

 Accurate observation helps the physician to

make a correct diagnosis and to prescribe
treatments.
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 It helps to determine the cause and
extent of diseases.

 It helps the nurse to plan the nursing

care in such a way, that it will
produce maximum benefit and
comfort to the patient.

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 Correct observation saves the life of the
patient in the critical condition of illness.

 Accurate observations help to prevent

complications in the patient by detecting
the early signs of complications.

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 It helps the nurse to use the safety
measures to prevent accidents. It
safeguards the patients and their family
by noting the early sign in case of
communicable diseases.

 It contributes to one's own learning as

well as it promotes research studies.
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 Observation is the basis of all scientific
works and all intelligent and effective
action. A hospital is able to analyze the
quality of its service through carefully
recorded observations.

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Methods of observation

 Inspection

 Palpation

 Auscultation

 Percussion