CEPHALOCAUDAL ASSESSMENT

HA: LEVEL 1-I (NCM101)

1-I (MTW 4:00pm-6:00pm)
FINALS
A comprehensive head-to-toe
assessment is done on patient admission, at
the beginning of each shift, and when it is
determined to be necessary by the patient’s
hemodynamic status and the context. The
head-to-toe assessment includes all the body
systems, and the findings will inform the health
care professional on the patient’s overall
condition. Any unusual findings should be
followed up with a focused assessment specific
to the affected body system.
CEPHALOCAUDAL ORDERS OF
EXAMINATION AREAS
 HEENT
 Neck
 Upper extremities
 Chest and back
 Breast and axillae
 Abdomen
 Genitals
 Anus and rectum
 Lower extremities
 Note: Skin is check throughout the
assessment
General Concepts:
 Approach the client calmly and
confidently.
 Provide privacy.
 Make sure that all needed instruments
are available before starting the
procedure.
 Several positions are frequently required
during the assessment. Consider the
client’s ability to assume a position.
 Be systematic and organized when
assessing the client. (Inspection,
Palpation,
 Percussion, Auscultation)
 If a client is a seriously ill, assess the
system of the body that are more at risk.
 Perform painful procedures at the end of
the examination.
METHODS OF EXAMINATION
 INSPECTION
 PALPATION
 PERCUSSION
 AUSCULTATION