This manual provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of physical diagnosis for healthcare professionals. It focuses on developing essential clinical skills in patient interviewing, medical history taking, physical examination, documentation, and clinical assessment. Students learn systematic approaches to evaluating common patient complaints across multiple body systems, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, neurologic, musculoskeletal, dermatologic, ophthalmologic, ENT, gynecologic, genitourinary, pediatric, and geriatric conditions. Through laboratory exercises, case studies, SOAP notes, and practical assessments, students build the foundational skills needed for effective patient evaluation and clinical decision-making.
Chapter I Physical Diagnosis I
Introduction
History Taking Skills
-Interview Techniques
-Components of a Medical History
-Medical History Assignment
Physical Examination
-Vitals, Skin & HEENT Exam Checklist
-Chest and Cardiovascular Exam Checklist
-Abdomen and Musculoskeletal Exam Checklist
-Neurologic Exam Checklist
-Head to Toe Checklist
Chapter 2 – Physical Diagnosis II Lab Manual
PD II Lab SOAP Note
Evaluation of Common Eye Complaints
-Common Eye Complaints
-Eye Lab Case A
-Eye Lab Case B
Evaluation of Common Skin Complaints
-Common Complaints
-Derm Lab Case A
-Derm Lab Case B
Practice Practical Exam
Evaluation of Common Ear, Nose and Throat Complaints
-Common Complaints
-ENT Lab Case A
-ENT Lab Case B
Evaluation of Common Pulmonary Complaints
-Common Complaints
-Pulmonary Lab Case A
-Pulmonary Lab Case B
Evaluation of Common Cardiovascular Complaints
-Common Complaints
-Cardiac Lab Case A
-Cardiac Lab Case B
PD II Lab - Annual Physical Exam
Evaluation of the Anemic Patient
-Hematology Lab Case A
-Hematology Lab Case B
PD II Oral Case Presentation
Chapter 3 – Physical Diagnosis III Lab Manual
Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Complaints
-Common Gastrointestinal Complaints
-GI Lab Case A
-GI Lab Case B
Evaluation of Geriatric Patients
-Geriatric Lab
-Geriatric Lab Case
Evaluation of Common Musculoskeletal Complaints
-Common Musculoskeletal Complaints
-Advanced Specialty Testing for Joints
Evaluation of Common Gynecologic Complaints
-Female Gynecologic Exam
-Breast Exam Techniques
-Female Genitalia Exam Techniques
Evaluation of Common Neurologic Complaints
-Common Neurologic Complaints
-Neurology Lab Case A
-Neurology Lab Case B
Evaluation of the Male Genitourinary System
-Male Genitalia Exam Techniques
Evaluation of Pediatric Patients
-Tips for Examining a Young Child
-Neonatal Reflexes/Primitive Reflexes
-APGAR Scoring
-Pediatric Lab
Appendix Lab Manual
Diagnostic Equipment Checklist
Sample Medical History
Sample Physical Exam
Diana E.
Cherkiss
Diana E. Cherkiss is Program Director and Associate Professor in the Physician Assistant Program at Nova Southeastern University’s Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine. She joined the PA program after five years of clinical practice in family medicine, with additional experience in weight management and regenerative medicine. Cherkiss earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Molecular Biology from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University’s Physician Assistant Program, and a Master of Public Health degree from NSU. She is a Fellow of the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants and was inducted into the Pi Alpha National Honor Society for Physician Assistants.
Melissa
Coffman
Melissa Coffman, Ed.D., is the Executive Accreditation Director at the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). She brings experience in physician assistant education, accreditation, and healthcare administration. Coffman earned a Doctor of Education in Health Care Education from Nova Southeastern University, a Master of Public Administration in Health/Health Care Administration and Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from LIU Brooklyn. Prior to her role with ARC-PA, she served as Chair of the Physician Assistant Department at Nova Southeastern University, where she contributed to PA education and program leadership.
Mara
Sanchez
Mara Sanchez is a Physician Assistant and educator at Nova Southeastern University. She earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University and brings clinical and academic experience to the education and training of future physician assistants.