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Chapter 25: The Complete History and Physical Examination: From Start to Finish

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DOI:

10.1891/9780826161765.0025

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the complete, head-to-toe pediatric physical examination for each age group. When conducting the history and physical examination on a neonate or infant, it is essential to review the prenatal, neonatal, and postnatal histories. It is recommended that the physical examination of the neonate or infant be conducted in the following sequence: vital signs, anthropometric measurements, general appearance, chest and heart, abdomen, head and face, neck, upper then lower extremities, spine and rectum, genitalia, neuromuscular, ears, nose, mouth, throat, and finally eyes. Beginning with the preschool age group, the physical examination can be conducted in a head-to-toe manner while the child is on the examination table, lying supine, dressed in a gown. As with all health assessments, relevant subjective data are collected first, and then objective data are obtained. Younger preschool-aged children may still be fearful when interacting with the health care provider.