41 SA Small Animal PE Physical Exam
Reviewing previous records, reiterating the reason for the visit, building rapport, interacting with the patient and client, using our knowledge of behavioral cues from patient and humans, taking a patient history, performing a physical exam and recording a SOAP are all parts of the physical exam!
In this module we concentrate on the hands on physical exam itself with the knowledge that all of the above will be incorporated as we build our skills.
The 3 most important things to improve our physical exam skills beyond knowledge are:
- Practice
- Practice
- Practice
There are two basic types of physical exam, both are of equal value and utility. It is recommended that what ever type you choose, you perform the physical exam in the same order so as not to miss something. Resist the temptation to focus only on the declared presenting complaint, and remember the examination begins as soon as you see the animal from a distance:
- Anatomic examination from nose to tail
- Examination of systems
Narrated Powerpoint of SA PE exam