A nurse is assessing the heart and believes a pericardial friction rub is present, but it is very faint. Which of the following, if utilized, might help the nurse hear this sound more clearly?
1. Have the client lean on the overbed table.
2. Push the stethoscope tighter against the client's skin.
3. Have the client turn his or her head to the right.
4. Have the client hold his or her breath while the nurse is listening.
Have the client lean on the overbed table.
Rationale: Having the client lean forward may help the nurse hear a pericardial rub more clearly. Pushing the stethoscope harder against the client's skin will be more uncomfortable for the client and may not reveal any clearer quality. Turning the client's head to either side and having the client hold his or her breath will not produce better results.
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