Assessment is one of the most vital parts of patient care in all settings. It is practiced with almost every patient interaction and when interventions are performed. Astute assessment skills can impact patient outcomes through recognition of abnormalities and prompt reporting to providers.

The functional anatomy and physiology of all systems is reviewed to provide insight into the basis for normal and abnormal assessment findings. The assessment parameters for various pathological disease states are reviewed to provide the health care professional with the knowledge to not only detect abnormalities, but to think and analyze the basis for signs and symptoms critically. Assessments generally performed by advanced practice nurses are detailed for understanding. Laboratory abnormalities are incorporated with the disorders. Considerations in the geriatric population are also included.

The extensive handout will provide an invaluable reference for future use. It is written in an outline format and includes various tables and bullet points to make the information easy to review and retain. Activities are presented throughout to reinforce knowledge at the clinical level and critical thinking.

A review of the following is incorporated into this interactive course:
• General principles
• Pain physiology
• Mental health
• Nutritional considerations
• Integumentary system
• Senses
• Pulmonary system
• Cardiovascular system
• Musculoskeletal system
• Gastrointestinal system
• Renal and urological systems • Neurological system
• Male and female systems

Learning outcome: As a result of attending this session, knowledge will be enhanced by reviewing pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and assessment techniques to provide more comprehensive care and be able to recognize clinical deterioration or improvement.