Chapter 5: korotkoff Sounds

Question 1

What are the sounds heard during blood pressure measurement are called?

Answer 1

Korotkoff sounds.

Question 2

korotkoff sounds are named after?

Answer 2

Russian physician Dr. Nikolai korotkoff (who identified them).

Question 3

What is the Phase I of Korotkoff Sounds?

Answer 3

The first pulse sound appears, monitor the reading on the gauge (patient’s systolic number).

Question 4

What is the Phase II of Korotkoff Sounds?

Answer 4

Blood flow in the artery increases and produces a softer swishing sound.

Question 5

What is the Phase III of Korotkoff Sounds?

Answer 5

The sounds become crisper and louder and a rhythmic tapping is heard.

Question 6

What is the Phase IV of Korotkoff Sounds?

Answer 6

As the blood starts flowing fairly easily, the sounds are muffled and softer.

Question 7

What is the Phase V of Korotkoff Sounds?

Answer 7

Since blood flow returns to normal, note the reading at which the sounds disappear completely (this is patient’s diastolic number).

Question 8

With the use of electronic blood pressure devices are Korotkoff sounds determined?

Answer 8

No, the chances of human error are eliminated.