A nurse is assessing a client's abdomen. In what order should the nurse complete the steps of the assessment? (Move the steps into the box on the right, placing them in the order of performance. Use all the steps.)

To correctly assess a client's abdomen, the nurse should first observe the contours with a penlight to note any visible abnormalities. Then, determine bowel sounds using the stethoscope diaphragm to assess gastrointestinal activity. Next, systematically percuss the abdomen to assess for any areas of dullness or tympany, which can indicate organ enlargement or fluid accumulation. Subsequently, lightly depress the right lower quadrant to assess for tenderness or masses. Lastly, press deeply into the upper abdomen left of midline to detect aortic pulsation, as this can indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm. This order ensures a thorough and systematic assessment of the abdomen. Other choices are incorrect as they do not follow the logical sequence of assessment steps.