health assessment, an evaluation of the health status of an individual by performing a physical examination after obtaining a health history. Various laboratory tests may also be ordered to confirm a clinical impression or to screen for dysfunction. The depth of investigation and the frequency of the assessment vary with the condition and age of the client and the facility in which the assessment is performed. The person’s response to any dysfunction present is observed and noted. The techniques of the health assessment include inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.
