Repeatability of physical signs in airways obstruction

AUTOR(ES)

Godfrey, S.

RESUMO

We have examined the observer variation in the detection of physical signs in airways obstruction. In the first study, 10 relatively experienced physicians examined 11 patients for the presence of six familiar signs and seven less well-known signs. Six experienced observers then underwent a training period after which they examined another group of 21 patients. The repeatability of all the signs fell about midway between that expected by chance and the maximum possible. There was no difference between the familiar and unfamiliar signs. The training period resulted in a slight but not significant improvement in reliability.

Documentos Relacionados

• Physical signs of diffuse airways obstruction and lung distension
• Clinical and physiological associations of some physical signs observed in patients with chronic airways obstruction
• Reversibility of airways obstruction in bronchiectasis.
• Airways obstruction in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Patterns of airflow in upper airways obstruction.