An<unk>  is a portion of the physical examination which a physician or nurse uses to clinically observe the abdomen of a patient for signs of disease. The physical examination typically occurs after a thorough medical history is taken, that is, after the physician asks the patient the course of their symptoms. The<unk>  is conventionally split into four different stages: first, inspection of the patient and the visible characteristics of their abdomen. Auscultation (listening) of the abdomen with a stethoscope. Palpation of the patient's abdomen. Finally, percussion (tapping) of the patient's abdomen and<unk>  organs. Depending on the need to test for specific diseases such as ascites, special tests may be performed as a part of the physical examination. An<unk>  may be performed because the physician suspects a disease of the organs inside the<unk>  cavity (including the liver, spleen, large or small intestines), or simply as a part of a complete physical examination for other conditions. In a complete physical examination, the<unk>  exam classically follows the respiratory examination and cardiovascular examination. The information gathered from the physical examination of the abdomen, along with the information from the history, are used by the physician to generate a differential diagnosis and ultimately a treatment plan for the patient.
Abdominal examination
Cardiovascular examination
Cardiac examination
Pulmonary examination
Rectal examination
Neurological examination
Respiratory examination
Peripheral vascular examination