Certified Tissue Bank Specialist (CTBS) Practice Test

What is the primary distinction between a physical examination and a physical assessment?

1. One can only be performed by a doctor

2. Physical assessment applies to living donors

3. Physical examination is limited to deceased donors

4. Physical assessment is more comprehensive than examination

The correct answer is: Physical assessment applies to living donors

The primary distinction is that a physical assessment is more comprehensive than a physical examination. A physical assessment encompasses a broader evaluation that includes not just an examination of the individual's physical condition but also involves gathering detailed health histories, vital signs, and functional capabilities, and it may integrate patient interactions to understand overall health better. This is especially important in tissue banking, where understanding the complete health status of a living donor can influence the viability of tissue recovery. While physical examinations can be performed on both living and deceased individuals, they are generally more focused on identifying any visible signs or presenting issues. A physical assessment is more holistic, incorporating multiple aspects of the individual's health and physical state, which is critical for living donors, who must meet certain health criteria before donating tissue. Hence, the distinction lies in the depth and breadth of the evaluation performed in a physical assessment compared to a physical examination.