Physical assessment forms the foundation of all nursing care, and assessment is an ongoing process of evaluating the person as a whole. A person is a physical, psychological, functioning being, therefore, physical assessment and psychological examination provide an innovative approach to the process of holistic assessment, physical assessment skills, clinical examination techniques and patient teaching guidelines.

Physical assessment is a complete systematic data-collection method that uses observation. With a simple step-by-step format, The Physical Assessment allows students to practice their physical assessment prior to entering nursing school and during their nursing training. Colorful illustrations demonstrate the steps of assessment: inspection, auscultation and palpation. Students must have an understanding of anatomy and physiology as well as familiarity with basic nursing skills and the nursing process. By carrying out physical assessment the student will be able to begin the nursing process, and develop a plan of care for the patient. This was simplified to enable students to practice in the privacy of their homes and be well prepared prior to entering nursing school. Preparation is the key to success.

Eileen O’Reggio has over twenty years of nursing experience in high-tech areas of nursing, and managing intensive and coronary care units. O’Reggio has a Bachelor's and Masters's degree in Nursing (BSN and MSN). She currently works as a Nursing Professor at two community colleges in Florida.