Physical examination is a medical procedure that involves inspecting and testing the body to assess overall health. The spelling of the word "physical examination" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈfɪzɪkəl/ /ɪɡzæmɪˈneɪʃən/. The first part, "physical," is spelled with a 'ph' to indicate Greek origins. The second part, "examination," is spelled with 'x' to indicate a combination of the sounds 'ks.' Together, these spellings create the full term for an important aspect of medical care.
Physical examination is a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's overall health status through a systematic assessment of their body's physical characteristics, functions, and structures. It is a fundamental component of medical practice that aims to gather objective information about a person's health by observing, palpating, percussing, and auscultating different body parts.
During a physical examination, a healthcare provider performs a series of tests and assessments to assess a variety of aspects including vital signs, general appearance, body systems, and organ functions. These tests often include measurement of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature to determine baseline physiological values and detect abnormalities.
Providers may also assess skin texture, color, and moisture; inspect the eyes, ears, nose, and throat; palpate organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys; examine the musculoskeletal system for abnormalities or signs of injury; and check reflexes and sensory responses. Furthermore, providers may utilize specific medical tools like stethoscopes, otoscopes, and ophthalmoscopes to aid in their examination.
Physical examinations serve several purposes, including diagnosing diseases or conditions, monitoring progress, identifying risk factors, and establishing a relationship between healthcare provider and patient. By conducting a thorough physical examination, healthcare providers can gather essential information and make informed decisions regarding a person's well-being, offering personalized treatment plans, preventative care recommendations, or referrals to specialists when necessary.
The word "physical" in "physical examination" comes from the Latin word "physicus", which means "pertaining to or concerning nature". This Latin word derives from the Greek word "physis", meaning "nature". "Examination" comes from the Latin word "examinare", which means "to weigh, test, or examine". It is derived from the Latin word "examen", meaning "a balance" or "a means of weighing". Hence, the term "physical examination" refers to the process of assessing, inspecting, and testing the body to determine a person's overall health or to diagnose a specific medical condition.