What does palpation refer to in a medical setting?

Palpation in a medical setting is defined as touching or feeling the body to examine its structures and assess various conditions. This practice allows medical professionals to gather important information about the size, shape, and texture of internal organs and tissues, as well as to detect any abnormalities, such as swelling or tenderness.

Through palpation, practitioners can evaluate for issues such as lumps, inflammation, or muscle spasms directly by feeling with their hands. This technique is crucial in physical examinations, assisting in diagnosing a variety of medical issues.

In contrast, measuring vital signs involves gathering numerical data about a patient's health, such as heart rate and blood pressure, while listening to heart sounds focuses specifically on auditory assessment through a stethoscope. Visual inspection pertains to observing physical attributes without touch, which does not involve the direct tactile feedback that palpation provides.