A breast exam is done with the patient in a seated position facing the examiner, initially.
Breast Exam Positioning
The initial part of a breast exam, which includes visual inspection, is typically performed with the patient sitting upright. This allows the examiner to assess the breasts for any obvious abnormalities while the patient is in a stable, comfortable position.
Detailed Examination Process
-
Visual Inspection: The patient is first observed while seated. During this phase, the patient is asked to:
- Place their hands on their hips.
- Raise their arms above their head.
These movements help highlight any irregularities in the shape, size, or skin texture of the breasts.
Why This Position?
The seated position is crucial for a thorough visual examination because:
- Optimal View: It provides a clear and unobstructed view of the breasts.
- Muscle Engagement: Positioning the hands on the hips and raising them above the head causes chest muscles to contract, accentuating any breast abnormalities.
