What is the difference between a "head to toe" assessment and a "focused" assessment?

As might be guessed from a common sense analysis of these terms, a head to toe assessment, which may be given at a review of health or at the initial appointment where the overall health of a patient is to be established, means that all of a person's functioning is examined. A focused assessment is more appropriate if a patient presents with a specific incident or complaint, such as a cut finger or an inflamed cheek.

That particular area of the body is the focus of attention. It would be time-wasting for a specific incident, such as an accident to one part of the body, to tie up a health professional for a long period carrying out a top to toe assessment. However, that might be called for when there is more diffuse pain or symptoms do not fall into one category.

A head-to-toe assessment is often carried out when a patient is admitted to hospital. It includes all the body systems, and the findings guide doctors and nurses on the patient’s overall condition. The presence of lesions, bruising, and rashes need noting.

Variations in skin temperature, texture, and perspiration or dehydration may indicate underlying conditions.A focused assessment may well follow, and this concentrates on the bodily area which caused admittance to the hospital. There might be internal discomfort or external injury.