Heart murmur in a 6 month old male

Question 1 of 7

At the end of the case the learner should be able

• To appreciate the differences between adult and pediatric cardiovascular physical exam. 
• To describe and differentiate innocent and pathologic murmurs 
• To list common symptoms and signs associated with pathological murmurs 
• To determine what follow-up investigations should be ordered 
• To describe and differentiate acyanotic and cyanotic lesions

 

Aaron is a 6-month old boy who has come to your preceptor’s family medicine clinic for a well child assessment. He appears comfortable at rest with no obvious signs of distress. Your preceptor asks you to conduct a physical examination.

While conducting the cardiovascular exam, you remember that the beating heart of a baby can differ from that of an adult in a number of different ways.

Which of the following are major differences found on the cardiovascular physical exam between children and adults? (Choose all that are appropriate)

An S3 heart sound is more commonly heard in adults 

An elevated heart rate is present in infants and young children

Low intensity (< Grade III) systolic ejection murmurs are often benign in children

An S4 heart sound is more commonly heard in children