Question

Where do you normally feel the apical impulse?

1) In the left 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line
2) In the right 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line
3) In the left 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line
4) In the right 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line

Answer 1

The apical impulse is normally felt in the left 5th intercostal space at the midclavicular line, which corresponds to the location of the heart's apex, slightly deviated to the left of the sternum.

Step-by-step explanation:

The apical impulse, also known as the point of maximal impulse (PMI), is normally palpable in the left 5th intercostal space at the midclavicular line. The human heart is located within the thoracic cavity between the lungs in the area known as the mediastinum. The heart's apex, where the apical impulse can be felt, is slightly deviated to the left of the sternum, between the junction of the fourth and fifth ribs, which corresponds with the location described.

During auscultation, this is an important landmark for clinicians to assess as they listen to heart sounds using a stethoscope. The apical impulse is a vital sign of cardiac health and can provide information about the heart's size and function.