When the Nurse Is Auscultating the Carotid Artery for Bruits

When the nurse is auscultating the carotid artery for bruits, which of these statements reflects the correct technique?

A) While listening with the bell of the stethoscope, the patient is asked to take a deep breath and hold it.
B) While auscultating one side with the bell of the stethoscope, the carotid artery is palpated on the other side to check pulsations.
C) While lightly applying the bell of the stethoscope over the carotid artery and listening, the patient is asked to take a breath, exhale, and briefly hold it.
D) While firmly placing the bell of the stethoscope over the carotid artery and listening, the patient is asked to take a breath, exhale, and briefly hold it.