In assessing the apical heart rate of an adult, in what order should the practical nurse (PN) perform the needed tasks?

A. Exposing the left side of the chest is the first step to access the area where the apical pulse is assessed. This step ensures that the nurse has clear access to the chest for auscultation. B. Locating the point of maximal impulse (PMI) is the next step once the chest is exposed. The PMI, typically located at the 5th intercostal space at the midclavicular line, is where the heart’s apex is closest to the chest wall. C. Positioning the diaphragm of the stethoscope on the PMI is the step where the actual auscultation begins. The diaphragm is used to listen for heart sounds. D. Listening for heart sounds at the PMI is the final step to assess the apical heart rate. This step completes the assessment by allowing the PN to count the heart rate and evaluate the rhythm.