Skip to content

Category: Medical examinations

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

What are the three types of examinations for which the supine position is used?

4 min read
The supine position, where a patient lies flat on their back facing upward, is a cornerstone of modern medicine due to its stability and optimal access to the anterior body. This versatility makes it essential for numerous diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, prompting the question: What are the three types of examinations for which the supine position is used?

What is the turn your head and cough for? Explaining the Inguinal Hernia Exam

4 min read
Inguinal hernias are one of the most common types of hernias, especially in men. During a physical exam, a physician often conducts the simple procedure known as **what is the turn your head and cough for** to check for this condition, which occurs when a weak spot in the abdominal wall allows tissue to bulge into the groin or scrotum.

Who Can Administer DOT Physicals? Navigating the Certified Medical Examiner Registry

3 min read
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), all medical examiners who perform physical examinations for interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers must be trained, certified, and listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). This certification is a strict requirement for **who can administer dot physicals** to ensure a high standard of medical evaluation and promote public safety.

Understanding What Are the Components of a Physical Exam?

4 min read
According to Virtua, annual physical exams are an essential component of preventive care, designed to identify and address health issues before they become serious. This guide will detail **what are the components of a physical exam**, helping you understand the process of your routine medical checkup.

Why Do Doctors Tap With Two Fingers? Understanding Percussion

3 min read
In 1761, Viennese physician Leopold Auenbrugger first developed the medical technique of percussion after observing his father tap wine barrels to gauge their fullness. This innovative method explains **why do doctors tap with two fingers** as a crucial, non-invasive part of a modern physical examination.

What is the sequence of a physical exam?

4 min read
According to the National Institutes of Health, a physical examination, combined with a patient’s medical history, provides a crucial foundation for effective diagnosis and management. Understanding **what is the sequence of a physical exam** helps you know what to expect and participate more confidently in your healthcare.

Why do doctors ask to see your hands? A comprehensive guide to diagnostic clues

4 min read
According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, a careful examination of the hands can provide simple, yet profound, clinical insights into a patient's health. This seemingly quick observation is a valuable part of the physical exam, which is why doctors ask to see your hands during an appointment. It's a key diagnostic tool that can reveal secrets hidden within the human condition.

Why do doctors make you squeeze their fingers? The simple test with serious implications

4 min read
According to a study published in *The Lancet*, reduced grip strength is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. When a doctor asks you to perform this seemingly simple task, there's a serious medical reason behind it: they are performing a quick and effective assessment of your neurological and muscular systems to check for underlying health issues. This test is a routine, yet crucial, part of many physical examinations and helps explain **why do doctors make you squeeze their fingers?**