Pulmonary assessment: what you need to know.

The purpose of this review is to describe a step-by-step assessment of the pulmonary system. Beginning with the sequence of the history and physical examination related to pulmonary assessment, the author describes the most common chief complaints and potential causes of these symptoms. The inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation steps of the physical examination are also reviewed. A detailed assessment of the pulmonary system will aid in the identification of patient problems and assist in the selection of appropriate goals and interventions for the patient.