The physical examination - documenting patient care - Factors that affect body temperature

- The physical examination includes objective data obtained by inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.

- When documenting patient care, the nurse should write legibly, use only standard abbreviations, and sign each entry. The nurse should never destroy or attempt to obliterate documentation or leave vacant lines.

- Factors that affect body temperature include time of day, age, physical activity, phase of menstrual cycle, and pregnancy.