Bowel sounds are best heard at the LUQ
On the four quadrants of the abdominal wall.
5 minutes
Typically, bowel sounds should be listened to for at least 5 minutes in each quadrant of the abdomen before reporting them as absent. If no bowel sounds are heard during this time, it may indicate a potential issue that should be further evaluated.
Lower right.
The right lower quadrant is usually auscultated first in the abdomen. This is where the ileocecal valve and the appendix are located, which are important areas to assess for bowel sounds and potential abnormalities.
Bowel sounds are MOST ACTIVE in the Right Lower Quadrant (RLQ) because to the right of the Umbilicus is the Ileocecal Valve and the point at which the Small Intestine connects to the Large Intestine. However, they can be heard in other quadrants too but the Right Lower Quadrant is where bowel sounds are most active.
Unless there is bowel obstruction, along with the peritonitis, bowel sounds can still be present.
During an examination a physician hears overactive bowel sounds known as high-pitched tinkling bowel sounds.
Yes
Bowel sounds that sound like the inside of a tin can, often described as "tinkling" sounds, may indicate increased peristalsis and bowel hyperactivity. This can be a sign of bowel obstruction or increased fluid and gas in the intestines. It is important to seek medical evaluation if you experience abnormal bowel sounds.
Depending on context, BS might mean blood sugar or bowel sounds.