NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers Related

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While auscultating heart sounds, the nurse hears a murmur. Which of these instruments would be used to assess this murmur?

  • A. Electrocardiogram
  • B. Bell of the stethoscope
  • C. Diaphragm of the stethoscope
  • D. Palpation with the nurse's palm of the hand
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct instrument to assess a murmur while auscultating heart sounds is the bell of the stethoscope. An electrocardiogram is used to measure the heart's electrical activity, not to assess murmurs. Palpation with the nurse's palm of the hand is a method to assess pulses or textures, not heart murmurs. The diaphragm of the stethoscope is typically used for high-pitched sounds like breath, bowel, and normal heart sounds, whereas the bell is more suitable for soft, low-pitched sounds such as murmurs or extra heart sounds.