Figure 6-7. Areas to auscultate for heart sounds.
Transmission of sounds with the closure of the
heart valves.
A
=
Aortic
P
=
Pulmonic
T
=
Tricuspid
M
=
Mitral
(4) Circulatory perfusion is blood flow through the vessels of a specific organ
or tissue. Arteries carry blood away from the heart, the capillaries serve as in-between
channels, and the veins carry blood toward the heart. Close examination of the
extremities will indicate the quality of the arterial and venous systems. Capillaries are the
smallest blood vessels. It is through their walls that oxygen and food are supplied to the
individual cells. To test capillary refill to extremities, press on a toe or fingertip, observe
blanching and the time it takes the area to return to its original color. Document the time in
seconds.
g. Gastrointestinal Assessment. Inspection, palpation, and auscultation are
used in gastrointestinal (GI) assessment. The GI system comprises two major
components: the alimentary canal and the accessory organs. The alimentary canal
includes the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Accessory
organs aiding GI function include the salivary glands, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, and
the pancreas. Assessment of the gastrointestinal system includes inspection of the oral
cavity (during HEENT evaluation), auscultation and palpation of the abdomen, and
examination of the rectum.
MD0906
6-15