NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers Related

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The healthcare professional is preparing to use a stethoscope for auscultation. Which statement is true regarding the diaphragm of the stethoscope?

  • A. Used to listen for high-pitched sounds
  • B. Used to listen for low-pitched sounds
  • C. Should be firmly held against the person's skin to block out low-pitched sounds
  • D. Should be lightly held against the person's skin to listen for extra heart sounds and murmurs
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm of the stethoscope is designed for listening to high-pitched sounds like breath, bowel, and normal heart sounds. It should be firmly held against the person's skin to ensure optimal sound transmission, leaving a ring after use. On the other hand, the bell of the stethoscope is ideal for detecting soft, low-pitched sounds such as extra heart sounds or murmurs. Therefore, the diaphragm is not used to block out low-pitched sounds but rather to enhance the detection of high-frequency sounds.