Basic Care and Comfort NCLEX PN Questions Nursing Practice Question
When performing an abdominal assessment, what is the correct order of the tasks?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In an abdominal assessment, the correct sequence is to first **inspect** the abdomen for any abnormalities, followed by **auscultation** to listen for bowel sounds, which can be affected by manipulation. Next, **percussion** helps assess the density of underlying structures, and finally, **palpation** allows for a more thorough examination of tenderness and organ size without disturbing sounds.
Options A and B are incorrect as they place percussion and palpation before auscultation, which can alter bowel sounds. Option D incorrectly places percussion last, which is not the standard practice in abdominal assessments.