Final answer:
The earliest auscultatory finding in left ventricular failure (LVF) is S3, which is the sound of blood sloshing back and forth in the ventricle.
Step-by-step explanation:
In left ventricular failure (LVF), the earliest auscultatory finding would be S3. S3 is the sound of blood sloshing back and forth in the ventricle and can indicate congestive heart failure. This sound is rarely heard in healthy individuals, but if it is heard later in life, further tests may be warranted.