To palpate the anterior thorax, you should use the finger pads of your dominant hand and
a. start at the apex of the right lung (above the clavicle), move down to each rib and intercostal space, and then repeat on the left.
b. palpate any areas of tenderness first.
c. start at the base of the right lung, move upward to each rib and intercostal space, and then repeat on the left.
d. have the patient lift the arms over the head to stretch the skin and enhance detection of any abnormal findings.
A
To perform palpation of the anterior thorax, stand in front of the patient; place the finger pads of the dominant hand on the apex of the right lung (above the clavicle); using light palpation, examine the integument of the thorax in that area; move the finger pads down to the clavicle and palpate; move down to each rib and ICS; palpate any area of tenderness last. Repeat the procedure on the left anterior thorax. You would never start at the base of either lung and move upward. To perform lateral palpation, you would have the patient lift the arms over the head.
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