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 {"dropdown-group-1":"C"}
Explanation
The pacemaker of the heart is known as the sinoatrial (SA) node. The SA node is a specialized group of cells located in the right atrium of the heart. It generates electrical impulses that initiate each heartbeat and set the rhythm for the entire heart.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The atria contract toward the end of diastole and push the remaining blood into the ventricles.
This choice is correct. During atrial systole (atrial contraction), the atria contract, pushing the remaining blood into the ventricles. This additional filling of the ventricles optimizes cardiac output.
B. The atria contract during systole and attempt to push against closed valves.
This statement is incorrect. The atria do not contract during systole; they contract during diastole (atrial systole) to fill the ventricles.
C. Atrial kick is the pressure exerted against the atria as the ventricles contract during systole.
This statement is incorrect. Atrial kick refers to the atrial contraction, not the pressure exerted against the atria.
D. Contraction of the atria at the beginning of diastole can be felt as a palpitation.
This statement is not entirely accurate. A palpitation is a sensation of rapid or strong heartbeat, which might be felt during various cardiac events, not specifically during atrial contraction at the beginning of diastole.

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