What should be assessed during a focused follow-up visit physical examination?
During a focused follow-up visit physical examination, the patient should have their weight, blood pressure, and heart rate measured. Signs of heart failure, such as elevated jugular venous pressure, hepatojugular reflux, pulmonary crackles, new murmurs or gallops, or edema should be assessed. The vascular examination should identify any change in peripheral pulses or new bruits. The examination of the abdomen should include special attention to bruits or abnormally prominent pulsations of the abdominal aorta. Additionally, BMI and waist circumference should be measured, as they can provide signs of additional risk.