The nurse is auscultating the thyroid gland and notes a bruit. Which conclusion by the nurse is appropriate based on this assessment finding?
1. Stenosis of the thyroid artery.
2. A normal finding.
3. Indicates increased blood flow.
4. Occurs with hypothyroidism.
Correct Answer: 3
If the thyroid is enlarged, blood flows through the arteries at an accelerated rate, producing a soft, rushing sound and is detected with the bell of the stethoscope as a bruit. A bruit does not indicate stenosis, which is when blood flow is restricted through a blood vessel. This is not a normal finding. Hypothyroidism can produce a smaller than normal thyroid gland and decreased blood flow.
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