All adults should have a yearly physical examination to determine any changes in their health status. The components of a doctor's checkup vary according to the doctor's preference and whether the patient is receiving an initial, brief or comprehensive examination. The examination is a time for the patient to express any physical or mental-health concerns she has.
Patient History
The patient is usually queried on his previous illnesses, accidents and surgeries. He is also asked about any ailments that are or were present in his parents or siblings to determine his predisposition for future disease. Often, this is accomplished by the patient filling out a form for the physician and nurse. The doctor then queries the patient for further details if necessary.
Current Health Status
The patient is usually queried about his current medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. She may be questioned about the quality and duration of her nightly sleep, the quality of her diet and her stress management. The patient may be questioned as to whether she has harmful lifestyle habits, such as smoking, alcohol abuse or illicit drug use. She is asked if she has any current health concerns.
Vital Signs
The patient's blood pressure, pulse, temperature and breathing are checked. Height and weight are recorded as well.
Head Examination
The head is examined in several ways. The oral cavity is checked, as well as the visible portion of the throat. The ears are examined, along with the nose and eyes. The vision may be checked for 20/20 vision. The neck may be palpated for enlarged lymph nodes, and the carotid arteries may be checked with a stethoscope.
Below-the-Neck Examination
The doctor examines the patient's skin for lesions. The heart and lungs are listened to through the stethoscope and the patient's abdomen is felt to locate any masses or areas of tenderness. The circulation may be checked by examining the fingernails and the toenails. The reflexes may be checked at this time.
Immunizations
Immunizations may be given, specific to the patient's needs. Depending on age, lifestyle and living conditions, the patient may be offered the influenza, pneumonia, human papilloma virus, shingles, meningococcal, hepatitis A, hepatitis B or tetanus plus diphtheria vaccines.
Sex-specific Examination
Females may receive a breast examination and a pelvic exam, including a pap smear. They may be sent for a mammogram beginning at age 40 or later. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recommends that women older than 64 have a bone-density test for osteoporosis. Males may receive a testicular and prostate examination.
Age-specific Examination
An older adult may receive a mental status examination. The Federal Citizen Information Center explains that patients may need to be tested for diabetes, high cholesterol and colon cancer, depending on age and health factors. An EKG, blood tests and urine tests may also be part of the exam, depending on age.
Lifestyle-specific Examination
The physician may test the patient for sexually-transmitted diseases and HIV if needed. He may also order a chest x-ray if the patient smokes tobacco. A screening for depression may be performed.
References
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: Women: Stay Healthy at Any Age: Your Checklist for Health
- Better Homes and Gardens: Your Checkup Checklist
- Medicare Initial Preventive Physical Examination Encounter Form
- National Institutes of Health: Physical Exam Frequency
- Federal Citizen Information Center: Ask Your Doctor About Checkups, Tests and Shots You Need
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