Bates’ Visual Guide to Physical Examination

Volume 3: 3.4 Skin Head Face and Neck — Child Video Transcript

Narrator: Examination of the skin is the same for children as for adults. Begin by inspecting and palpating the fingernails, looking especially for any clubbing or cyanosis. Next, inspect the skin of the child’s face and upper torso, noting color, pigmentation, texture, hair distribution and thickness and any lesions.

Common skin conditions in preschool children include birthmarks, nevi, and scars. Look for these and other distinguishing characteristics, noting their placement and dimensions.