"We need to determine the areas of tenderness before using percussion and palpation."

"Auscultation allows the patient more time to relax and therefore be more comfortable with the physical examination."

"Auscultation prevents distortion of bowel sounds that might occur after percussion and palpation."

"Auscultation prevents distortion of vascular sounds, such as bruits and hums, that might occur after percussion and palpation."