åndedrætsundersøgelse

Åndedrætsundersøgelse, also known as respiratory examination, is a systematic evaluation of the respiratory system performed by a healthcare professional. It is a crucial part of a physical examination used to assess lung function and identify potential problems. The examination typically involves several components.

Inspection involves observing the patient's breathing pattern, rate, and depth. The healthcare provider will look for any signs of distress, such as the use of accessory muscles to breathe or nasal flaring. The shape of the chest and any visible deformities are also noted.

Palpation follows inspection. The provider will feel the chest wall to assess for tenderness, masses, or crepitus. Tactile fremitus, a vibration felt on the chest wall during speech, is also assessed to detect abnormalities in the lung tissue.

Percussion involves tapping on the chest wall to produce sounds that vary depending on the underlying tissue. A healthcare professional can distinguish between the resonance of healthy lung tissue, the dullness of fluid or solid masses, and the hyperresonance associated with air trapping.

Auscultation is the final and often most informative part of the examination. Using a stethoscope, the provider listens to breath sounds in different areas of the chest. Normal breath sounds are typically vesicular. Abnormal sounds, such as crackles, wheezes, or rhonchi, can indicate various respiratory conditions like pneumonia, asthma, or bronchitis.

The findings from an åndedrætsundersøgelse help guide further diagnostic tests and treatment plans for individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms.