Palpate

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Palpate

Palpate (/ˈpælpeɪt/, from Latin palpatio, from palpare "to touch gently") is a method used in medical examination to feel the body or a specific part of it. It is often used to assess the size, shape, firmness, or location of an abnormality found in a physical examination.

Etymology

The term "palpate" comes from the Latin palpatio, from palpare which means "to touch gently". It has been used in the medical field since the late 19th century.

Procedure

During palpation, the examiner uses their hands to feel the body tissues. This can be done either directly with bare hands or indirectly using a glove or some other form of protection. The technique is used to check for any abnormalities in the body, such as lumps or areas of tenderness.

Types of Palpation

There are two main types of palpation: light and deep. Light palpation is used to detect surface characteristics and is performed with the fingers slightly bent. Deep palpation, on the other hand, is used to examine the organs and structures that lie deeper beneath the skin. It is performed with the fingers straight and pressing down deeply.

Related Terms

  • Percussion: Another physical examination technique where the body is tapped at specific points to determine the underlying structure or condition.
  • Auscultation: This is the process of listening to the sounds of the body during a physical examination.
  • Inspection: The initial stage in a physical examination where visual observation of the patient is made.

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