What process involves feeling a part of the body with the hand?

The process of feeling a part of the body with the hand is known as palpation. This technique is commonly used in clinical assessments to gather information about the condition and texture of various tissues. For instance, a healthcare provider may palpate the abdomen to check for abnormalities like tenderness, swelling, or masses, which can provide vital information regarding a patient's health.

In contrast, auscultation involves listening to internal body sounds, commonly using a stethoscope to assess heartbeats or lung sounds. Percussion refers to tapping on the body surface to determine underlying structures' constitution and position, while inspection consists of looking at the body’s physical appearance to identify any visible abnormalities. Understanding these terms helps clarify how different examination techniques contribute to a comprehensive patient assessment.