Chapter 12 - Diagnostic Terms

Question 1

Auscultation

Answer 1

Listening to sounds within the body using the stethoscope

Question 2

Percussion

Answer 2

Tapping on a surface to determine the difference in the density of the underlying structure.

Ex: tapping on the lungs - hollow sound is good, a solid or dullness sound is not good

Question 3

Pleural Rub

Answer 3

Scratchy sound produced by pleural sources rubbing against each other. Not normal rubbing of the pleura.

Question 4

Rales (crackles)

Answer 4

Fine crackling sounds hear on auscultation (during inhalation) when there is fluid in the alveoli. Popping or clicking sounds.

Question 5

Rhoncus (pleural: Rhonchi)

Answer 5

Loud rumbling sounds heard on auscultation of bronchi obstructed by sputum. “Loud whistle from throat”

Question 6

Sputum

Answer 6

Basically spit. Material expelled form the bronchi, lungs, or upper respiratory tract by spitting.

Question 7

Stridor

Answer 7

Strained, high pitched sound heard on inspiration caused by obstruction in the pharynx or larynx.

Question 8

Wheezes

Answer 8

Continuous high-pitched whistling sounds produced during breathing.