What is the first step in performing a physical examination?

The first step in performing a physical examination is to inspect the patient. Inspection involves a visual assessment and is crucial as it allows the healthcare provider to gather initial information about the patient's general appearance, behavior, and any potential signs of illness or abnormality. This step sets the foundation for the subsequent components of the examination, as it may guide the clinician in deciding what areas require further examination and what techniques might be necessary, such as palpation or auscultation.

During inspection, the practitioner looks for various factors such as the patient's skin color, body structure, and any visible signs of distress or discomfort. This information can provide critical insights into the patient’s overall health status and can often indicate issues that may not be immediately apparent through other examination methods. By starting with inspection, the clinician ensures that they have a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition before proceeding to more invasive examination techniques.