A nurse is performing a cardiac assessment. Identify where the nurse should place the stethoscope to auscultate the client's apical pulse. (You will find hot spots to select in the artwork below. Select only the hot spot that corresponds to your answer.)
right upper sternal border
left upper sternal border
left lower sternal border
5th intercostal space, midclavicular line
The Correct Answer is {"xRanges":[234.765625,254.765625],"yRanges":[107.609375,127.609375]}
A. The right upper sternal border is not the correct placement for auscultating the apical pulse. This location is more appropriate for assessing heart sounds related to the aortic valve.
B. The left upper sternal border is not the correct placement for auscultating the apical pulse.
This location is more appropriate for assessing heart sounds related to the pulmonic valve.
C. The left lower sternal border is not the correct placement for auscultating the apical pulse.
This location is more appropriate for assessing heart sounds related to the tricuspid valve.
D. 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line is the correct placement for auscultating the apical pulse. This location corresponds to the apex of the heart, which is where the apical pulse (also known as the point of maximum impulse or PMI) can be best heard.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Observing the client's respiratory status is also important, but it is an ongoing assessment rather than an immediate action.
B. Monitoring intake and output every 8 hours is important for overall fluid balance, but it is not the top priority in this situation.
C. This is crucial to prevent aspiration, which can occur if the feeding formula enters the lungs, leading to pneumonia or other serious complications. Elevating the head of the bed helps keep the esophagus above the stomach, reducing the risk of aspiration.
D. Checking residual volume every 4 to 6 hours is a part of enteral feeding care, but it is not the top priority. Monitoring respiratory status takes precedence due to the potential risk of aspiration.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is the correct method for identifying the client before administering medication.
Asking for the client's full name and date of birth is a standard and effective way to ensure that the right medication is given to the right person.
B. Depending solely on a family member to verify the client's identity is not considered a reliable method. While involving family members can be helpful in certain situations, the primary responsibility lies with the nurse to directly confirm the client's identity.
C. Verifying the client's room number is not a sufficient method of client identification.
Room numbers can change, and it's possible for clients to be moved, so relying on this alone is not considered safe practice.
D. Checking the client's name on the medication administration record (MAR) is an important step in medication administration, but it is not the initial method of identifying the client. It's used to confirm that the right medication is being administered to the right person after the client's identity has been established through direct interaction and confirmation.
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