Objective: Conduct a General survey on a person of your choice. The purpose of this interaction is observation only.
- Physical Appearance/Hygiene:
- General appearance:
- Gender
- Apparent age
- Ethnic group
- Appears overall healthy
- Well-groomed or disheveled (Note the general color of skin and hygiene)
- Body Structure and Movement (Observe general stature):
- Height appropriate for apparent age
- Appears well nourished
- Weight suitable for the height
- Position or posture (comfortable and relaxed)
- Obvious deformities
- Walks with ease
- Gait balanced and smooth
- Limitations to range of motion
- Involuntary movements
- Using assistive devices
- Emotional/Mental Status and Behavior:
- Level of alertness
- Appear well rested or tired
- Converse appropriately
- Behavior appropriate for the situation
- Dress suitable for the weather
- Document observations with detailed responses in a narrative format. For example, if a client appears tired provide a description adequate for the reader to visualize the client, “Client is alert and appears tired, slumped in a chair with eyes half closed.”
- Describe two actual or potential risk factors for the client based on the assessment findings with description or reason for selection of them.