Crackles - Fine (Rales)
Crackles - Fine (Rales)
Fine crackles are brief, discontinuous, popping lung sounds that are high-pitched. Fine crackles are also similar to the sound of wood burning in a fireplace, or hook and loop fasteners being pulled apart or cellophane being crumpled. Crackles, previously termed rales, can be heard in both phases of respiration. Early inspiratory and expiratory crackles are the hallmark of chronic bronchitis. Late inspiratory crackles may mean pneumonia, CHF, or atelectasis.Patient Recording
Patient Recording - Half Speed Playback
Position
The patient's position should be seated.
Listening Tips
Features:Rales are brief, discontinuous, popping sounds that are high-pitched. Similar to wood burning in a fireplace. More commonly heard during inspirationWaveform (Phonocardiogram)
Authors
These authors contributed the audio recordings and text found in this reference guide: Jon Keroes, MD,Diane Wrigley, PA, and David Lieberman.Medically reviewed by Dr. Barbara Erickson, PhD, RN, CCRN.
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