Posterior Thorax

Front 1

POSTERIOR THORAX #1

Inspect thorax for (2) symmetry, contour, skeletal deformities, ratio of anteroposterior
diameter to transverse diameter 2:1 or 5:7 ratio (AP Diameter)

Back 1

POSTERIOR THORAX #1

Make sure you lower one side of the patient's gown. Look at the side of the thorax and exclude breast tissue and then compare.

Front 2

POSTERIOR THORAX #2

Inspect skin for (2) color, lesions, scars

Back 2

POSTERIOR THORAX #2

Front 3

POSTERIOR THORAX #3

Palpate skin for temperature, moisture

Back 3

POSTERIOR THORAX #3

Front 4

POSTERIOR THORAX #4

Auscultate for normal & adventitious breath sounds

Back 4

POSTERIOR THORAX #4

Listen for a complete breath. Directions to patient is to breath in and out through mouth a little deeper than normal. Don’t tell them when to breath. Go with them as they naturally breath. Follow the scapula around

Front 5

POSTERIOR THORAX #5

Identify anatomical location where bronchovesicular, vesicular breath sounds are
normally heard

Back 5

POSTERIOR THORAX #5

When you identify the areas for the breath sounds, say it before you auscultate. Don’t do it as you are auscultating.

Front 6

POSTERIOR THORAX #6

Percuss for costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness

Back 6

POSTERIOR THORAX #6

At the 12th rib. Rib slopes up toward the spine. Put heel of hand on the spinal column and then thump one time on each side.

Front 7

POSTERIOR THORAX #7

Demonstrate appropriate interaction and draping

Back 7

POSTERIOR THORAX #7

Your arms need to be back into the sleeves, and drape so you can see the posterior thorax