The present study is an exploratory survey attempting to get the point of view of the faculty of subjects considered responsible by teaching physical examination in the nursing undergraduate schools of São Paulo city that were selected for this study. The goals were: to detect the situation of teaching of propaedeutics basis; to identify factors that make them difficult; and to identify the recommendations of the faculty for the improvement of teaching and its implementation. The population studied was formed by 39 faculty of the subjects considered responsible by teaching physical examination. Results show us there is not a specific subject to teach physical examination, although it is tauhgt mainly in Fundamental Nursing; faculty are not entirely prepared to teach physical examination. To improve teaching of physical examination, the faculty suggest enhancing their knowledge and skills as well as to create a specific subject to teach physical examination with sufficient hours according to the content.
physical examination; teaching; nursing education
