Performing a Head to Toe Assessment

Performance Behaviors

Steps in the assessment

• Inspection• Auscultation• Percussion• Palpation

Assessment video

Auscultation

• Bowel Sounds• Vascular Sounds

Assess and compare bilateral lower extremities

• Movement and strength• Temperature and color• Dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial • pulses• Capillary refill• Sensation

Finishing steps

• Listen to posterior lung sounds if not done earlier

• Reposition patient for comfort• Place call light within reach• Open curtain and wash hands