May 1, 2024 · The lung exam is a standard approach for comprehensive and focused physical examinations in patients. Due to their proximity to vital structures such as the heart, great vessels, esophagus, and diaphragm, a careful examination of the lungs can offer valuable insights for differential diagnoses.

The Lung Exam. Inspection and Observation; Anatomy; Palpation; Percussion; Auscultation; Sample Lung Sounds; The 4 major components of the lung exam (inspection, palpation, percussion and auscultation) are also used to examine the heart and abdomen.

The pulmonary exam is one of the most important and often practiced exam by clinicians. While auscultation is most commonly practiced, both percussion and inspection are equally valuable techniques that can diagnose a number of lung abnormalities such as pleural effusions, emphysema, pneumonia and many others.

During a physical exam, your healthcare provider may perform a chest examination. It is sometimes referred to as a lung exam. This is especially important when trying to diagnose a respiratory condition.

Sep 30, 2010 · A step-by-step guide to performing a respiratory examination in an OSCE setting, with an included video demonstration and interactive OSCE checklist.

Apr 14, 2025 · The examination of the pulmonary system is a fundamental part of the physical examination that consists of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation (in that order). Recognition of surface landmarks and their relationship to underlying structures is essential.

The evaluation of the respiratory system includes collecting subjective and objective data through a detailed interview and physical examination of the thorax and lungs. This examination can offer significant clues related to issues associated with the body’s ability to obtain adequate oxygen to perform daily functions.

Patients with lung disease should undergo a complete physical examination, including examination of lymph nodes, skin, and the musculoskeletal system.

There are many physical examination maneuvers described for evaluation of lung sounds. These are techniques of auscultation and percussion: Auscultate for presence of crackles, wheezes and rub, alternating between left and right lung. Listen for bronchial breath sounds. Perform auscultatory percussion. Assess for excursion depth during inspiration.

A respiratory examination, or lung examination, is performed as part of a physical examination, [1] in response to respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, or chest pain, and is often carried out with a cardiac examination.