How is a nasal examination performed?
Nov 01, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Currently, the most commonly used method for nasal examination is anterior rhinoscopy. Direct the light toward the patient's nasal tip and instruct the patient to breathe, comparing airflow through both nostrils. Observe whether there is congestion or swelling in the nasal vestibule. Insert the anterior rhinoscope into the nasal vestibule, taking care not to go beyond the nasal threshold. Gently open the two blades of the rhinoscope up and down to lift the ala nasi, thereby enlarging the anterior nares, and proceed with the examination following the three head positions assumed by the patient.
Nasal examination methods include anterior rhinoscopy, nasal endoscopy, and imaging examinations such as nasal X-ray, paranasal sinus CT, and nasal MRI. Currently, anterior rhinoscopy is the most commonly used method for nasal cavity examination. The specific procedure is as follows:
1. During the examination, the examiner should stand facing the patient and direct the light toward the tip of the patient's nose.
2. Block one nostril with the thumb, instruct the patient to breathe, and compare the degree of airflow through both nostrils.
3. Have the patient recline slightly, lift the tip of the nose with the thumb, and observe whether the nasal vestibule is congested or swollen.
4. Close the two blades of the anterior rhinoscope and insert them parallel to the nasal floor into the nasal vestibule, without advancing beyond the nasal threshold.
5. Gently open the two blades of the rhinoscope up and down to lift the ala nasi and enlarge the anterior nares.
6. Instruct the patient to assume three head positions in sequence: face vertical or slightly lowered, slightly tilted backward at a 30-degree angle to the nasal floor, and further tilted backward by another 30 degrees. Perform the examination in this order.
