Which area of the abdomen should be palpated last during an examination?

During an abdominal examination, it is essential to palpate in a manner that minimizes discomfort for the patient and allows for a thorough assessment. Palpating the painful part last is standard practice because it helps to avoid causing unnecessary pain or distress to the patient at the outset. Starting with the painless areas allows the provider to establish trust and keep the patient relaxed, which can lead to a more accurate examination.

When the examination reaches the painful zone last, the provider can also assess the surrounding areas first and may gather clues regarding the nature of the pain without exacerbating it initially. This approach is especially critical in cases of acute abdominal pain, where tenderness might indicate serious conditions. Therefore, this strategy ensures that the provider gains a more comprehensive understanding of the abdominal issue while keeping patient comfort in mind.