During physical examination of a 56-year-old man,the nurse palpates the point of maximal impulse (PMI)in the sixth intercostal space lateral to the midclavicular line.What is the most appropriate interpretation of this finding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The point of maximal impulse (PMI) is normally located at the fifth intercostal space in the midclavicular line. Palpating the PMI in the sixth intercostal space suggests that the patient may have left ventricular hypertrophy, which causes displacement of the PMI to a lower location. Age-related downward displacement of the heart typically occurs in elderly patients and would not affect the location of the PMI. Left atrial enlargement would not cause a change in the location of the PMI.

During Physical Examination of a 56-Year-Old Man,the Nurse Palpates the Point