health assessment exam 1 test bank Related

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While auscultating for heart sounds, the nurse hears an unfamiliar sound. What should the nurse do next?

  • A. Document the findings on the patient's record.
  • B. Wait 10 minutes, and auscultate the heart again.
  • C. Ask another nurse to double-check the finding.
  • D. Ask the patient to take deep breaths and check for changes in their physical condition.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because documenting the findings is essential for accurate patient care and communication among healthcare professionals. By documenting the unfamiliar sound heard during auscultation, the nurse ensures that the information is recorded for future reference and potential follow-up assessments or interventions. Waiting 10 minutes (B) may not address the immediate need for documentation. Asking another nurse to double-check (C) may be helpful but does not address the importance of documenting the finding. Asking the patient to take deep breaths (D) is not the appropriate next step when an unfamiliar heart sound is detected; documentation is crucial before further assessment or intervention.