Which is not a sign we look for during the first step of the abdominal exam?

In the context of conducting an abdominal exam, the first step typically involves a visual inspection of the abdomen. During this stage, healthcare providers look for various physical signs that may indicate underlying issues. The signs that are commonly assessed include scars, swelling, and bruising, all of which can provide valuable information about the condition of the abdomen.

Pain, however, is not a visual sign that can be observed during the inspection phase. Instead, pain is a subjective experience reported by the patient and is assessed in later steps of the examination, particularly when the abdomen is palpated. Recognizing visible signs in the first step helps to form an initial assessment, but understanding the patient’s subjective experience of pain is critical for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Thus, pain is not included in what is observed visually during the initial assessment of the abdomen.