Skull, Scalp & Hair
· Observe the size, shape and contour of the skull.
· Observe scalp in several areas by separating the hair at various locations; inquire about any injuries. Note presence of lice, nits, dandruff or lesions.
· Palpate the head by running the pads of the fingers over the entire surface of skull; inquire about tenderness upon doing so. (wear gloves if necessary)
· Observe and feel the hair condition.
Normal Findings:
Skull
· Generally round, with prominences in the frontal and occipital area. (Normocephalic).
· No tenderness noted upon palpation.
Scalp
· Lighter in color than the complexion.
· Can be moist or oily.
· No scars noted.
· Free from lice, nits and dandruff.
· No lesions should be noted.
· No tenderness or masses on palpation.
Hair
· Can be black, brown or burgundy depending on the race.
· Evenly distributed covers the whole scalp (No evidences of Alopecia)
· Maybe thick or thin, coarse or smooth.
· Neither brittle nor dry.
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Face
1. Observe the face for shape.
2. Inspect for Symmetry.
a. Inspect for the palpebral fissure (distance between the eye lids); should be equal in both eyes.
b. Ask the patient to smile, There should be bilateral Nasolabial fold (creases extending from the angle of the corner of the mouth). Slight asymmetry in the fold is normal.
c. If both are met, then the Face is symmetrical
3. Test the functioning of Cranial Nerves that innervates the facial structures
4. CN V (Trigeminal)
1. Sensory Function
· Ask the client to close the eyes.
· Run cotton wisp over the fore head, check and jaw on both sides of the face.
· Ask the client if he/she feel it, and where she feels it.
· Check for corneal reflex using cotton wisp.
· The normal response in blinking.
2. Motor function
· Ask the client to chew or clench the jaw.
· The client should be able to clench or chew with strength and force.
CN VII (Facial)
1. Sensory function (This nerve innervate the anterior 2/3 of the tongue).
