MODEL RELEASED. Palpation chest examination. A general practice doctor uses the technique of palpation to examine a man with a heart condition. The patient lies on a bed while his chest is pressed by the doctor's fingers and hand. The texture of the patient's skin can reveal retention of water, while the swelling of organs beneath can also be detected. Both oedema (fluid accumulation in tissues, including the lungs) and enlargement of the heart may signify heart failure.