Which assessment technique involves using the senses to gather information about a patient?

The assessment technique that involves using the senses to gather information about a patient is inspection. During inspection, healthcare providers visually assess a patient to identify any signs of illness or abnormalities. This can include observing the patient's skin color, posture, movements, and overall demeanor. It is the first step in a physical examination and lays the foundation for further assessment.

In contrast to inspection, palpation involves using touch to gather information about the body, such as checking for tenderness or swelling. Auscultation refers to listening to the internal sounds of the body, typically using a stethoscope, to assess functions like heart and lung activity. Percussion involves tapping on the body to elicit sounds or vibrations that can provide information about underlying structures, such as the presence of fluid or air in cavities.

Inspection effectively encompasses the use of sight and can sometimes involve smell, thereby fulfilling the criterion of using the senses to gather comprehensive information about a patient's health status.