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27.0: Introduction

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    105858
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    Abdominal assessment using an ultrasound device.
    Figure 27.1: Using comprehensive abdominal assessment along with a detailed medical history can help identify key indicators for underlying health concerns. (credit: modification of “Imaging specialists look beyond the skin” by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin/U.S. Air Force, Public Domain)

    The abdominal system is a complex body system that has multiple functions for the overall performance of the human body. Each organ plays a specific and vital role. The structure of the organ contributes its function. From birth to older adults, the abdominal system changes as the person ages. When a patient has an acute illness or a chronic medical condition, the abdominal assessment will also change. Knowing and understanding the individual organs and how they function together will aid the nurse in assessing the abdomen.


    This page titled 27.0: Introduction is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by OpenStax via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.

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