Precordial Examination Flashcards
What is a Precordial Examination?
This is an examination of the heart which is located in the precordium.
Name the Steps involved in the Precordial Examination?
- Inspect
- Palpate
- Auscultation
Inspection:
-Scars, deformities, dilated vessels, evidence of surgery or pacemaker
Palpation
Locate apex beat- 5th left intercostal space (hands horizontal)
- Sternal heave- left side of sternum (heel of hands upwards)
- Palpate the X4 valves (Aortic, Pulmonary, Tricuspid and mitral)
Where is the apex beat located?
Left 5th intercostal space
Where is the sternal heave located?
Left sternal angle (heel of hands upwards)
Auscultation
Valve Areas:
Listen for the X4 valve areas- Aortic, pulmonary, tricuspid and mitral)
-Image of valve areas- on notes
Tips: Accentuates Sounds
- Turn patient to left side and listen for apex beat- identifies mitral stenosis
- Sit patient forwards and ausculate over left lower parasternal edge > Aortic Regurgitation !!!!!!
Carotids:
-Left and right carotid arteries neck
How is the aortic and mitral regurg tested?
Mitral Regurg- turn patient on to their left side and listen over the mitral valve area
Aortic Regurg- listen over the aortic valve and get patient to sit foward and gold their breath in (makes the sound more clear)