The RN is admitting a client to the medical unit for a urinary disorde

The RN is admitting a client to the medical unit for a urinary disorder. Which physical assessment techniques should the nurse use in assessing this client’s urinary system?

1. Auscultation and inspection
2. Inspection and percussion
3. Observation and auscultation
4. Palpation and observation

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: The nurse will not use auscultation when assessing the client’s urinary system.
Rationale 2: The percussion technique is the least frequently used by nurses, and it would cause discomfort if this client is already uncomfortable with a kidney condition. The nurse should not make matters worse.
Rationale 3: The nurse will not use auscultation when assessing the client’s urinary system.
Rationale 4: The hands and sense of touch are used with palpation to gather data along with observation or inspection, which visually allows the nurse to observe all responses and nonverbal behavior. It is also the most frequently used technique and the most convenient.