Which physical examination technique is commonly used to assess for abdominal pain?

Palpation is the correct technique commonly used to assess for abdominal pain because it allows the healthcare provider to physically feel the abdomen for tenderness, masses, or organ enlargement. During palpation, different areas of the abdomen are pressed softly to detect any pain response, which can provide important clues about possible underlying conditions. For instance, localized tenderness can indicate inflammation (such as appendicitis) or other specific abdominal issues, while generalized tenderness might suggest a different kind of pathology.

While other examination techniques like auscultation, percussion, and inspection are important parts of a comprehensive abdominal examination, they serve different purposes. Auscultation focuses on listening for bowel sounds, which can indicate gastrointestinal activity, while percussion helps assess the density of underlying structures and can reveal fluid or a mass. Inspection allows for a visual assessment of the abdomen but does not provide the tactile feedback crucial for diagnosing pain-related issues. Therefore, palpation is essential for evaluating specific areas of discomfort and determining the nature of abdominal pain.