Master Nose Assessment with Picmonic for Nurse Practitioner

The first step of the nose assessment is to examine the external structure of the nose. The nose should be symmetrical, in the middle of the face, and be proportionate to the rest of the person’s face.

Look for any signs of inflammation, deformities or lesions on the nose. If an injury to the nose is suspected, gently palpate the area and assess for pain and color change.

To assess for a nasal obstruction, occlude one nostril at a time and ask the person to breathe through the unoccluded nare.. An obstruction may hinder the patient’s ability to breathe.

Look for any signs of inflammation, deformities or lesions on the nose. If an injury to the nose is suspected, gently palpate the area and assess for pain and color change.

When inspecting the nasal cavity, note any discharge, bleeding or foreign body. Also observe the nasal septum for deviation, which looks like one nare opening larger than the other. Deviated septums are common and not concerning unless they cause airflow obstruction.

To palpate the sinuses, firmly press up and under the eyebrows (frontal sinuses), and then over the below the cheekbones (maxillary sinuses) bilaterally. The person should feel pressure without discomfort.