The Physical Exam
A century ago, the gold standard for most diagnoses was, out of necessity, the physical exam. But even today, the exam is still critical to good patient care. In the face of modern technology and nonstop testing, the exam helps us guide their appropriate and judicious use. It connects us to our patients, makes us better diagnosticians, and contributes to the trust that allows true healing.
A thorough and thoughtful physical exam is a portable, affordable, accessible tool that minimizes harm while improving physician and patient confidence and stewardship of healthcare resources. It is a crucial skill that allows us to evaluate and prioritize diagnostic hypotheses, helping to guide and monitor treatments and further testing. And with proper consent, harnessing the power of touch helps us connect to and heal our patients and ourselves.
As your mentors, we believe that the physical exam:
- Creates opportunities for us to foster meaningful connection, build trust and humanize our care
- Is a valuable mindful practice that encourages healing and equity
- Connects the anatomy and pathophysiology to the human in front of us
- Increases our confidence in the differential diagnosis and fosters our communication with patients
In Immersion, you will begin to master the thorough, head-to-toe exam that might be performed on a new patient. You will revisit the exam alongside the physiology and pathophysiology of each organ system during the Foundations phase.
We believe that excellent physical exam skills will serve you and your patients well throughout your career and your mentors are committed to building, maintaining, and using these skills for ourselves.
Learning the values: equity, access, observation, mindfulness, and trust through the physical exam.
Introductory chapters
Before Physical Exam Lab #1, read the next three chapters, navigating with the arrows at bottom or via the links.