Narrator: : To examine the anterior thorax, have the patient remain supine and breathing normally. Readjust draping appropriately. Observe the condition of the skin and inspect the chest for deformities, asymmetry, and respiratory movement. Next, palpate the chest wall to locate any areas of tenderness or to assess any lesions or abnormalities.
Next, percuss the anterior thorax in symmetrical areas, proceeding from the supraclavicular area down to the 6th rib or below. Again, compare both sides. Identify your percussion notes and the locations. Using the diaphragm of your stethoscope, you should hear resonance over the anterior lung fields.