HESI (Health and Environmental Sciences Institute) Health Assessment Practice Test

What does a blowing, swishing sound heard over the carotid artery indicate during an assessment?

1. A valvular disorder

2. Blood flow turbulence

3. Fluid volume overload

4. Ventricular hypertrophy

The correct answer is: Blood flow turbulence

A blowing or swishing sound, often described as a bruit, heard over the carotid artery during an assessment is indicative of blood flow turbulence. This sound occurs due to disturbed blood flow, typically as a result of a narrowing (stenosis) in the arterial lumen. When the flow of blood encounters resistance, it creates vibrations that result in an audible sound. Blood flow turbulence can be associated with various cardiovascular conditions, including atherosclerosis, which can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. This turbulence signifies changes in normal perfusion and may warrant further investigation to assess for potential vascular disease or complications. In contrast, a valvular disorder pertains to issues with the heart valves themselves, which may present differently during auscultation and are not directly linked to sounds emanating from the carotid artery. Fluid volume overload relates to conditions affecting overall blood volume and may influence heart sounds rather than producing a bruit in the carotid area. Ventricular hypertrophy, while significant in indicating pressure overload in the heart, would not specifically produce a blowing sound over the carotid artery and is assessed through other means, such as auscultation of the heart or imaging studies.