Question

To distinguish between S1 and S2 heart sounds, simultaneously palpate the carotid pulse with the index and middle fingers and listen to the heart sounds. ____________ is synchronous with the carotid pulse.

Answer 1

The S1 heart sound, described as a 'lub,' is synchronous with the carotid pulse and indicates the closing of the atrioventricular valves. The S2 sound, a 'dub,' occurs with the closing of the semilunar valves and is not synchronous with the pulse.

Step-by-step explanation:

To distinguish between the two heart sounds, S1 and S2, it is useful to palpate the carotid pulse while listening to the heart. The sound S1, or the "lub" sound, is synchronous with the carotid pulse. This sound indicates the closing of the atrioventricular valves during ventricular contraction. In contrast, the S2 sound, or "dub," is associated with the closing of the semilunar valves during ventricular diastole and is not synchronous with the carotid pulse. In general, the heart sounds and pulse are part of routine cardiovascular assessment including auscultation using a stethoscope and blood pressure measurements observing the Korotkoff sounds.