GKT CLINICAL SKILLS: PHYSICAL EXAMINATION PATIENT EDUCATOR PROGRAMME
CARDIOVASCULAR EXAMINATION.
Systems Check List

Appropriate introduction to patient giving your own name and checking the name
of the patient.

Explain the purpose and main steps of the examination.

Gain verbal consent to proceed with the examination

Invite the patient to ask questions at any point during the examination.

Wash hands before the beginning of the examination.

Position the patient correctly with the torso at 45 degrees on an examination
trolley or bed, expose the chest appropriately. Check for any pain, discomfort or
soreness. Ensure that the dignity and comfort of the patient is met.

Inspect the patient’s general appearance. Check for anemia.

Inspect the hands for clubbing/splinters/peripheral cyanosis.

Check for arterial pulses, radial for rate and rhythm, carotid for pulse waveform.

Check blood pressure (BP).

Examine the jugular venous pressure (JVP). Head turned slightly to the side.

Inspect the chest. Look for scars (relevant to the cardio examination) deformities,
abnormal veins, respiratory distress.

Palpate for the apex beat. Feel for thrills and heaves.

Auscultation all over the precordium. Time cardiac cycle against pulse.

Auscultation over apex beat with the bell side of stethoscope and the patient
rolled a little to the left for evidence of mitral stenosis.

Examination for aortic regurgitation with diaphragm side of stethoscope and the
patient sitting up leaning forward.

Auscultation of lung bases posteriorly. Check for sacral oedema while patient is
sitting up.

State intention to examine the peripheral circulation and look for any dependent
oedema.

Carry out the examination in an orderly and professional manner

Attend to patient’s dignity and privacy throughout.

Establish and maintain rapport with the patient throughout.
Revised 9/6/04