What should be assessed on the scalp during an examination?

During a scalp examination, assessing for bumps, bleeding, swelling, and bruises is crucial as these indicators can reveal underlying issues or injuries. The presence of bumps may indicate trauma, cysts, or other skin conditions. Bleeding can point to more serious injuries that may require immediate medical attention. Swelling could be a sign of infection or an inflammatory response, and bruises can provide information about prior trauma. This thorough assessment helps in diagnosing potential scalp or neurological issues and ensures a comprehensive approach to patient care.

While other options may involve aspects of scalp condition, they do not directly address potential trauma or pathological changes that require immediate attention. For instance, color and temperature can be important for circulatory issues, but without the context of physical injury, they do not provide the same level of critical information.