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Physical examination during space flightOBJECTIVE: To develop techniques for conducting a physical examination in microgravity and to describe and document the physiologic changes noted with use of a modified basic physical examination. DESIGN: On the basis of data gathered from physical examinations on KC-135 flights, three physical variables were assessed serially in astronauts during two shuttle missions (of 8- and 10-day duration, respectively). Preflight, in-flight, and postflight examinations were conducted by trained physician-astronauts or flight surgeons, who used this modified examination. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Five male and two female crewmembers participated in the "hands-on" physical examination of all physiologic systems except the genitourinary system. Level of edema, intensity of bowel sounds, and peripheral reflexes were assessed and graded. RESULTS: This investigation identified unique elements of a physical examination performed during space flight that will assist in the development of standard methods for conducting examinations of astronauts in weightlessness. In addition, demonstrable changes induced by microgravity were noted in most physiologic systems examined. CONCLUSION: The data support the hypothesis that the microgravity examination differs from that conducted on earth or in a 1g environment. In addition, alterations in the physiologic response can be detected with use of hands-on technique. These data are invaluable in the development of optimal medical care for humans in space.
Document ID
20040172989
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Harris, B. A. Jr
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Billica, R. D.
Bishop, S. L.
Blackwell, T.
Layne, C. S.
Harm, D. L.
Sandoz, G. R.
Rosenow, E. C. 3rd
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
April 1, 1997
Publication Information
Publication: Mayo Clinic proceedings
Volume: 72
Issue: 4
ISSN: 0025-6196
Subject Category
Aerospace Medicine
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
STS Shuttle Project
short duration
Parabolic Flight
NASA Discipline Number 02-30
NASA Discipline Number 06-10
NASA Discipline Space Human Factors
NASA Center JSC
Flight Experiment
manned
NASA Program Space Human Factors
NASA Program Clinical Medicine

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