Cardiovascular Assessment
Cardiovascular assessment is a way to assess the state, function, and defects of the heart and blood flow. The patient's history of heart and blood flow problems is noted, including the onset, quality, length of time, and place of any pain. Also noted are weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, fever, coughing, wheezing, and an uneven heart beat.
Questions are asked about:
- Fainting
- Stomach upset
- Swelling of the feet and hands
- Bluish skin
- Changes in sight
- Whether the hands and feet ever feel numb or cold
The patient's appearance, color, posture, the rate and rhythm of the pulses, and the neck veins are observed. The color, temperature, and dryness or sweating of the skin are noted. The blood pressure, temperature, and rate and type of breaths are checked. The sounds the heart makes are listened to closely. Past heart surgery and illness are discussed.
A number of tests are done on the blood itself as it relates to heart disease. A graph of the electrical signals of the heart may also be done (electrocardiogram). A thorough test of the heart and blood flow is an important part of a complete physical.