To perform an effective nursing examination, nurses should follow these steps: 1. Preparation: Ensure all necessary equipment is available and the environment is conducive to a thorough examination. 2. Patient Interaction: Communicate clearly with the patient, explaining the procedure and obtaining informed consent. 3. Systematic Approach: Follow a structured format, starting with general observations and moving to specific systems (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal). 4. Documentation: Record findings accurately and promptly in the patient's medical records. 5. Follow-Up: Based on the findings, develop a care plan and schedule follow-up assessments as needed.