Which type of examination is used to determine a patient's overall health status?

A physical examination is the correct answer because it is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a healthcare professional to evaluate a patient's overall health status. This examination typically includes various assessments such as checking vital signs, examining the body's systems, and assessing any physical symptoms or conditions. The goal is to gather information on the patient's physical health to identify any potential medical issues, establish a baseline for future health evaluations, and provide a holistic view of the patient's well-being.

In contrast, diagnostic tests are specific procedures or assessments (like blood tests or imaging studies) used to confirm or rule out particular health conditions rather than evaluate overall health. A psychiatric evaluation focuses specifically on mental health and emotional well-being rather than physical health. A metabolic assessment targets metabolic processes and may involve evaluating specific biochemical markers related to metabolism but does not provide a complete picture of overall health. Therefore, the physical examination is essential for determining a patient's holistic health status.