Enrichment Terms: Normal Structure and Function

Question 1

apical pulse

Answer 1

Pulse felt or heard over the apex of the heart. It is measured in the fifth left intercostal space (between the ribs) about 8 to 9 cm from the midline

Question 2

cardiac output

Answer 2

The amount of blood pumped from the right or left ventricle per minute

Question 3

Korotkoff sounds

Answer 3

Arterial sounds heard with a stethoscope during determination of blood pressure with a cuff

Question 4

precordium

Answer 4

The anterior region over the heart and the lower part of the thorax; adjective, precordial

Question 5

Valsalva maneuver

Answer 5

Bearing down, as in childbirth or defecation, by attempting to exhale forcefully with the nose and throat closed. This action has an effect on the cardiovascular system