What is the initial step in assessing the chest in a head-to-toe examination?

The initial step in assessing the chest during a head-to-toe examination is to inspect and palpate the area. Inspection allows the examiner to visually assess thoracic symmetry, respiratory effort, and any visible abnormalities such as deformities, cyanosis, or signs of respiratory distress.

Following inspection, palpation helps assess for any irregularities beneath the surface, such as tenderness, masses, or crepitus. These two steps are fundamental in establishing a baseline for further assessments. By starting with inspection and palpation, the healthcare provider can gather crucial information prior to moving on to auscultation or checking for open wounds.

The other options, while relevant to a comprehensive assessment, are typically performed after the initial inspection and palpation steps. Listening for lung sounds is part of a thorough evaluation but comes after the initial observations. Checking for open wounds or palpating for tenderness may be warranted based on findings from the inspection phase but does not precede it in the assessment sequence.