Competency Performance Checklist

Skill 30-15: Assessing the Abdomen

Student: Date:
Essential/ Element Competency
critical Demonstrated?
element? Yes No
1. Introduced self and verified client’s identity.
2. Explained procedure to client and discussed how results will be used.
3. Gathered appropriate equipment.
4. Performed hand hygiene and observed appropriate infection
prevention procedures.
5. Provided for client privacy.
6. Inquired about the client’s history related to the abdomen.
7. Assisted the client to a supine position. Placed pillows to reduce
tension in the abdominal muscles. Exposed the abdomen only from the
chest to the pubic area.
8. Inspected the abdomen for skin integrity.
9. Inspected the abdomen for contour and symmetry.
a. If distension was present, measured the abdominal girth by placing
a tape around the abdomen at the level of the umbilicus.
10. Observed abdominal movements associated with respiration,
peristalsis, or aortic pulsations.
11. Observed the vascular pattern.
12. Auscultated the abdomen for bowel sounds, vascular sounds, and
peritoneal friction rubs.
13. Percussed several areas in each of the four quadrants to determine
presence of tympany and dullness.
14. Performed light palpation to detect areas of tenderness and/or muscle
guarding. Systematically explored all four quadrants.
15. Palpated the area above the pubic symphysis if the client’s history
indicated possible urinary retention.

Used effective body mechanics throughout procedure.

Communicated appropriately with the client.
Documented all relevant information.

Comments:

Overall Performance: Satisfactory Unsatisfactory

Copyright 2016 by Pearson Education, Inc.

 Evaluator:

Copyright 2016 by Pearson Education, Inc.