Which method of examination would be used to determine a patient's chest size increase?

Mensuration is the method used to determine a patient's chest size increase because it involves measuring specific physical dimensions of the body. This technique uses tools such as measuring tapes or calipers to obtain accurate measurements. In the context of assessing chest size, mensuration would provide numerical values that reflect any changes in size, which is particularly important for evaluating conditions related to respiratory function or monitoring the effects of certain treatments.

The other methods mentioned serve different purposes. For example, palpation involves feeling the body to detect abnormalities, such as masses or areas of tenderness. Auscultation refers to listening to internal sounds, typically using a stethoscope to assess lung function and heart sounds. Inspection is the visual examination of the body for signs of disease or abnormalities, but it does not yield the specific measurements required to determine chest size changes. Consequently, mensuration is the most appropriate method in this scenario.