What aspects should be checked in the nose and mouth during an examination?

During an examination of the nose and mouth, it is crucial to assess both the presence and quality of breathing, as well as any fluid, bleeding, or odors. Checking for breathing presence ensures that the airway is open and that air is moving in and out of the lungs; this is essential in assessing a person's immediate respiratory status.

Alongside breathing, examining for fluid or bleeding can indicate potentially serious conditions, such as nasal injury or infections. Odors can also provide diagnostic clues, for instance, foul odors might suggest an infection, while other specific odors may be associated with certain metabolic conditions.

Thus, a comprehensive assessment requires a thorough inspection of both aspects—the respiratory function and any abnormalities in the nasal or oral cavity. This combined evaluation is fundamental in making informed decisions about further actions or interventions that may be necessary during emergency situations.