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Neck Assessment. Heather Nelson, RN. Neck. Inspect for symmetry, masses, scars, gland or lymph node enlargement. Evaluate ROM by having patient flex, extend, rotate, and laterally turn the head and neck. Inspect the neck as the patient swallows, observing symmetry and alignment.
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Neck Assessment Heather Nelson, RN
Neck • Inspect for symmetry, masses, scars, gland or lymph node enlargement. • Evaluate ROM by having patient flex, extend, rotate, and laterally turn the head and neck. • Inspect the neck as the patient swallows, observing symmetry and alignment.
Head and Neck Lymph Nodes • Inspect and palpate lymph nodes of the head and neck.
Lymph Nodes • The superficial lymph nodes are named by location and are easily palpable when enlarged. • Note the size and location of any palpable nodes and whether they were soft or hard, non-tender or tender, and mobile or fixed.
Lymph Nodes • Systematically palpate with the pads of your index and middle fingers for the various lymph node groups.
Lymph Nodes • Preauricular • In front of the ear • Postauricular • Behind the ear • Occipital • At the base of the skull • Tonsillar • At the angle of the jaw • Submandibular • Under the jaw on the side • Submental • Under the jaw in the midline • Superficial (Anterior) Cervical • Over and in front of the sternomastoid muscle • Supraclavicular • In the angle of the sternomastoid and the clavicle
Thyroid Gland Evaluation • Inspect neck anteriorly for visible thyroid tissue and asymmetry with swallowing. • Watch patient swallow when head is hyperextended. Note asymmetry and enlargement. • Palpate using a gentle touch. • Palpate for size, shape, configuration, tenderness, and presence of any nodules.