Measuring and Recording the Apical Pulse

Multiple Choice

A sphygmomanometer is used to take an apical pulse.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

An apical pulse is frequently taken on infants or small children.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

The earpieces of the stethoscope should be bent forward when they are placed in the ears.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

A pulse deficit frequently occurs when the heart is weak and not pumping a sufficient amount of blood.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

For the most accurate determination of a pulse deficit, one person should check the apical pulse while a second person checks the radial pulse.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

Each “lubb-dupp” sound in the heart should be counted as two beats while taking an apical pulse.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

Heart sounds are caused by ____.

• contraction of the heart muscle

• relaxation of the heart muscle

• closing of the valves in the heart

• movement of blood through the heart chambers