When a doctor uses a stethoscope, what is being monitored? explain
- A. Moderate bradycardia.
- B. Mild mitral valve regurgitation.
- C. Mild atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries.
- D. Both A and B.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: D. Both A and B.
Explanation:
A stethoscope is a medical instrument used by doctors to listen to internal body sounds, mainly from the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. This process, known as auscultation, helps in diagnosing various conditions based on sound patterns.
1. Moderate Bradycardia (Option A)
Bradycardia refers to a slower-than-normal heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute in adults. A doctor can detect moderate bradycardia using a stethoscope by listening to heart sounds and counting beats per minute. While some individuals (especially athletes) naturally have a slow heart rate, bradycardia can sometimes indicate an underlying issue like an electrical conduction problem in the heart.
2. Mild Mitral Valve Regurgitation (Option B)
Mitral valve regurgitation occurs when the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the left atrium instead of moving forward into the left ventricle. Using a stethoscope, a doctor can hear an abnormal murmur caused by turbulent blood flow. The intensity and quality of the murmur help assess the severity of regurgitation. In mild cases, patients may not have symptoms, but over time, it can lead to complications like heart enlargement.
Why Not Option C?
Mild atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries involves plaque buildup inside the arteries, restricting blood flow. However, atherosclerosis does not produce an audible sound that a doctor can detect with a stethoscope. Instead, it is typically diagnosed through imaging tests like angiography or stress tests.
Thus, since a stethoscope can detect both moderate bradycardia and mild mitral valve regurgitation, the correct answer is D. Both A and B.