The neurological examination is an important skill to acquire for all medical students. If performed correctly, it can help tremendously to narrow down the differential diagnoses which would subsequently guide investigations and management plan. One important aspect of the neurological examination is to help localise the lesion. For example, in patients presenting with unilateral limb…
Before touching the patient, it is important and good practice to stand back and spend some time in performing a thorough general examination of the patient. Unfortunately, students often rush into touching the patient, hence often neglecting crucial signs which may lead to the diagnosis. An approach to the general examination of a patient presenting…
Positioning For general examination, examining the cortical function and upper limbs, the optimal position would be to sit the patient upright at an approximate 45-60ยบ angle to the bed (Figure 1). Of course, if the patient is ambulatory, the patient can also be examined whilst sitting comfortably on a chair (Figure 2). The optimal position…