During a physical examination of an older patient,the nurse palpates the point of maximal impulse (PMI)in the sixth intercostal space lateral to the left midclavicular line. The best follow-up action for the nurse to take will be to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The PMI should be felt at the intersection of the fifth intercostal space and left midclavicular line. A PMI located outside these landmarks indicates possible cardiac enlargement,such as with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). The other assessments are part of a general cardiac assessment but do not represent follow-up for LVH. Cardiac enlargement is not necessarily associated with atherosclerosis or carotid artery disease.

During a Physical Examination of an Older Patient,the Nurse Palpates