Which of the following is not an example of an inspection?

The choice regarding heart rate and rhythm irregularity is not an example of inspection because inspecting typically involves visually examining external characteristics without any need for invasive techniques or tools. Inspection involves observing physical conditions such as the appearance of the abdomen, the clarity of the lungs, or the condition of the skin.

When professionals inspect the abdomen, they may note if it is tympanic, which refers to a drum-like sound when it is tapped, indicating air presence. Similarly, assessing the lungs for clarity involves listening to breathing sounds, which also may involve inspection through a stethoscope. When stating that the skin is clear, it indicates an observation of the skin's external appearance.

In contrast, evaluating heart rate and rhythm typically requires palpation or auscultation, which means it goes beyond simple visual inspection to physical examination techniques. This context helps underscore why the statement about heart rate and rhythm does not fit within the category of inspection.