Chapter 5: korotkoff Sounds Flashcards
What are the sounds heard during blood pressure measurement are called?
Korotkoff sounds.
korotkoff sounds are named after?
Russian physician Dr. Nikolai korotkoff (who identified them).
What is the Phase I of Korotkoff Sounds?
The first pulse sound appears, monitor the reading on the gauge (patient’s systolic number).
What is the Phase II of Korotkoff Sounds?
Blood flow in the artery increases and produces a softer swishing sound.
What is the Phase III of Korotkoff Sounds?
The sounds become crisper and louder and a rhythmic tapping is heard.
What is the Phase IV of Korotkoff Sounds?
As the blood starts flowing fairly easily, the sounds are muffled and softer.
What is the Phase V of Korotkoff Sounds?
Since blood flow returns to normal, note the reading at which the sounds disappear completely (this is patient’s diastolic number).
With the use of electronic blood pressure devices are Korotkoff sounds determined?
No, the chances of human error are eliminated.