Which of the following is a component of the physical examination?

• A. Observation
• B. Diagnosis
• C. Treatment
• D. Prognosis

Answer: (A)

During a physical examination, information gathering begins with careful observation of the patient. Watching general appearance, posture, gait, breathing, skin color, and signs of distress provides essential clues that guide the rest of the exam. This step—observation or inspection—is part of the physical examination because it yields immediate, noninvasive data before hands-on assessment. The other terms relate to the later stages of care: diagnosis is identifying what disease is present, treatment is what you do to manage it, and prognosis is the expected outcome over time.