Describe the physical exam and diagnostic tools to be used for Mr. Rodriguez. Are there any additional you would have liked to be included that were not? 

Week 3 discussion advance nursing practice

The physical exam and diagnostic tools used for Mr. Rodriguez include a complete physical examination, including cardiovascular, respiratory and abdominal exams. Additionally, chest X-Ray, electrocardiogram (EKG) and blood work are indicated to assess heart health. Blood work will be used to evaluate his cholesterol levels as well as kidney function tests such as creatinine levels and urine analysis. To further understand the degree of narrowing or blockage in his coronary arteries an exercise stress test or cardiac catheterization may be ordered depending on doctor’s discretion if needed. An ultrasound of the carotid arteries may also be done to evaluate possible stroke risk factors.

Other diagnostic testing that could have been included but were not would include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) which can provide detailed images of the brain and other organs while detecting structural abnormalities in them; computed tomography (CT) scannings which offer more detailed views than X-rays; echocardiograms which use sound waves to make pictures of your heart; endoscopy which is used to examine internal organs through a thin tube with a camera on its end; colonoscopy which is used for examining the inner lining of large intestine for any irregularities or anomalies; pulmonary function tests in order to measure lung capacity by evaluating how much air is inhaled/exhaled & how quickly it can pass through lungs etc. These additional exams mentioned can help identify causes/risks associated with Mr Rodriguez’s underlying medical condition(s).