When should a patient's collarbone be assessed?

Assessing a patient's collarbone is important during a full body examination for several reasons. The collarbone, or clavicle, is a critical bone that connects the arm to the body and plays a role in stabilizing the shoulder. During a comprehensive assessment, it is essential to evaluate all major bones and joints, especially in trauma situations where injury may not be immediately obvious.

In a full body examination, you're able to check for alignment, any visible deformities, tenderness, or swelling that may indicate an injury, even if the patient does not specifically report any issues with that area. This thorough approach ensures that potential injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can be identified early, allowing for appropriate management and treatment.

While there are scenarios where a collarbone assessment might be warranted, such as during initial contact or in response to specific symptoms like chest pain, these do not encompass the systematic approach that a full body examination provides. It is crucial not to overlook any potential injuries that might coexist with more prominent complaints.