Inspection and palpation are two basic methods used in physical exams. They are different but work well together.

1. Inspection: This method is all about looking at the patient to find any problems. It’s the first thing done in a physical exam, and it involves checking:

• Skin Color and Texture: Looking for rashes or bumps can give hints about other health issues.
• Body Movements: Watching how a patient moves can show signs of pain or problems with the nervous system.
• Posture and Walking: These details help us learn about any muscle or nerve issues.

For example, if a patient has jaundice, their skin and eyes might look yellow. This can mean there’s a problem with the liver.

2. Palpation: After inspection, palpation is when you use your hands to feel for any problems. This helps you check:

• Texture and Consistency: You can figure out if a bump is hard, soft, or filled with fluid.
• Temperature: By feeling an area, you can tell if it’s warm or cold, which can mean there’s inflammation or poor blood flow.
• Tenderness: You can find out which areas hurt when touched.

For instance, if a doctor feels a painful area in the belly, it might mean there’s appendicitis, especially if it’s in the lower right side.

In simple terms, inspection is all about looking, while palpation is about feeling. Together, these methods help create a full picture of a patient’s health.