The nurse is preparing to assess the heart rate on an adult female client. The nurse recognizes that the apical pulse can be assessed in an adult female at which of the following anatomical position?
Fifth left intercostal space at the midclavicular line
Third left intercostal space at the midclavicular line
Fourth left intercostal space at the sternal border
Under the left breast at the midclavicular line
The Correct Answer is A
A. Fifth left intercostal space at the midclavicular line:
Explanation: The apical pulse, or the point of maximal impulse (PMI), is typically located at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line on the chest. This is the area where the heartbeat is best heard using a stethoscope in most adults.
B. Third left intercostal space at the midclavicular line:
Explanation: This location is too high for the apical pulse. The heart's apex is generally not found at the third intercostal space; it's lower, closer to the fifth intercostal space.
C. Fourth left intercostal space at the sternal border:
Explanation: This location is not the typical site for auscultating the apical pulse. The PMI is usually heard at the midclavicular line, not at the sternal border.
D. Under the left breast at the midclavicular line:
Explanation: This position is not precise enough for auscultating the apical pulse. The specific intercostal space (fifth) and midclavicular line are crucial for accurate assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Discuss that a light will be directed at the neck to observe for pulsations of the artery:
This choice is incorrect. Directing light at the neck is not a standard method for assessing carotid artery pulsations. The carotid artery is usually assessed by palpation to feel the pulse rather than visual observation.
B. Instruct the client to take a deep breath and "hold" while the nurse briefly auscultates:
This choice is incorrect. Auscultation is typically not used to assess carotid artery pulsations. Palpation (feeling the pulse) is the primary method used for this assessment.
C. Demonstrate that both arteries will be palpated simultaneously to compare amplitude:
This choice is correct. Palpating both carotid arteries simultaneously allows the nurse to compare the amplitude (strength) of the pulses. This comparison helps in assessing the symmetry of the pulses and ensures there are no significant differences between the two sides, which could indicate vascular abnormalities.
D. Show the client the diaphragm of the stethoscope that will be placed on the neck:
This choice is incorrect. The diaphragm of the stethoscope is not typically used for palpating pulses. Palpation involves using the fingertips to feel the pulse and assess its strength and regularity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The location of most breast tumors: This choice is correct. The upper outer quadrant of the breast is the most common site for breast tumors. This area has a higher concentration of glandular tissue, making it more susceptible to the development of tumors. Therefore, thorough examination of this area is crucial during breast examinations.
B. More prone to Injury and calcifications than other locations in the breast: While injuries can occur in any part of the breast, the statement about calcifications is not accurate. Calcifications in breast tissue can occur in various areas and are not specific to the upper outer quadrant.
C. The largest quadrant of the breast: This statement is not accurate. The breast quadrants are not distinguished by size; they are anatomical divisions used for reference during breast examinations. Each quadrant has its significance for examination purposes, but none is considered the largest.
D. Where most of the suspensory ligaments attach: The suspensory ligaments, also known as Cooper's ligaments, provide structural support to the breast tissue. While they are essential for breast anatomy, they are not concentrated in the upper outer quadrant exclusively. These ligaments are distributed throughout the breast tissue.
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