Which of the following is an everyday practice in all aspects of veterinary medicine and is used to help determine how a patient feels?

Physical monitoring is a fundamental practice in veterinary medicine that allows practitioners to assess the patient's physical status and vital signs, which are crucial for determining how an animal feels. This involves observing and measuring parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and overall behavior. By monitoring these signs regularly, veterinarians can detect changes in a patient's condition, which can indicate pain, discomfort, or other health issues.

This practice provides immediate and actionable information about the patient's state, allowing for timely interventions. Physical monitoring is an everyday occurrence in clinical settings, as it is essential for making informed decisions about care and treatment recommendations, ensuring that each animal's needs are met based on their current health status.

In contrast, clinical trials are more specialized research efforts rather than routine practices, laboratory testing often focuses on specific issues rather than ongoing assessment, and patient history evaluation, while important, primarily informs the understanding of the animal's background and prior health conditions rather than immediate feelings.