NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers Related

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The healthcare professional is preparing to auscultate the abdomen. How should they proceed?

  • A. Warm the endpiece of the stethoscope by rubbing it between their hands.
  • B. Ensure the patient is adequately covered and comfortable during the examination.
  • C. Ensure that the diaphragm side of the stethoscope is in use.
  • D. Check the room temperature and offer blankets to the patient if needed.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When preparing to auscultate the abdomen, it is important to ensure the patient's comfort. The room should be warm to prevent shivering, which can interfere with sound clarity. Offering blankets to the patient if they feel cold helps maintain their comfort during the examination. The endpiece of the stethoscope should be warmed by rubbing it between the examiner's hands, not by placing it in warm water. It is important to use the diaphragm, not the bell, of the stethoscope to auscultate for bowel sounds. Therefore, choice D is the correct answer, as it addresses the patient's comfort and the room temperature, which are essential for a successful abdominal auscultation.