Physical assessment - Nose, mouth, and throat: Nursing

Assessment of the nose, mouth, and throat should be completed as part of a comprehensive client assessment, or as part of a focused exam if the client is experiencing issues such as loss of smell, dental pain, or dysphagia. Examination of the nose, mouth, and throat provides the nurse with information about the integrity of these structures as well as the client’s ability to smell, taste, and swallow. Assessment of the nose, mouth, and throat can also help the nurse to identify any problems with the respiratory and digestive tracts. Let’s review the process of completing a nose, mouth, and throat assessment.

Okay, the supplies you’ll need for the nose, mouth, and throat assessment include a nasal speculum, tongue depressor, gauze, gloves, a penlight, and a good source of light. Then, prepare for the exam by ensuring your client is in a comfortable position, that your hands are warm, and that the room is a comfortable temperature. Before getting started, explain the procedure to your client and be sure to answer any questions they might have before obtaining verbal consent. Then, perform hand hygiene and collect your supplies.

Now, locating the anatomical landmarks of the nose, mouth, and throat will help guide your assessment. The landmarks of the external nose include the nasal bridge, nares, and the columella, which is the anterior tissue that covers the external part of the nasal septum. The landmarks of the nasal cavity include the nasal septum which divides the nose into two cavities called the vestibules, and the turbinates, which are bony structures that form the internal nasal walls.

The maxillary sinuses are located on either side of the nose within the maxillary bone, while the frontal sinuses are within the frontal bone on the lower part of the forehead. The landmarks of the mouth include the lips, teeth, gingiva or gums, tongue, and the hard and soft palates; whereas the landmarks of the throat include the tonsillar pillars, posterior pharynx, and the uvula.