The nurse taking an apical pulse would place the stethoscope at:
directly below the sternum.
the left of the sternum at the third intercostal space.
the left midclavicular line at the fifth intercostal space
tightly above the left nipple.
The Correct Answer is C
A. The area directly below the sternum is not the location for the apical pulse.
B. The third intercostal space is too high for the apical pulse, which is best heard at the fifth intercostal space.
C. The left midclavicular line at the fifth intercostal space is the proper location for auscultating the apical pulse.
D. Placing the stethoscope above the left nipple does not ensure accurate assessment of the apical pulse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Listening to the apical pulse for one full minute provides a more accurate reading of the heart rate and rhythm, especially when the radial pulse is irregular.
B. Recording the findings on the graphic sheet is necessary, but it doesn’t address the irregularity of the pulse.
C. Taking the pulse on the other wrist does not provide the necessary information about the apical pulse.
D. Taking the pulse for one full minute on the other wrist is not necessary unless the pulse is absent on the first wrist.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While auscultating lung and abdominal sounds is important, it is not as urgent as checking neurological function in a head trauma patient.
B. Assessing verbal and motor responses is critical to evaluate the level of consciousness and neurological function in a patient with head trauma.
C. Monitoring daily weight is not an immediate concern for a patient with possible head trauma.
D. Monitoring intake and output is important but not the priority compared to assessing the neurological status in head trauma patients.
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