5 Questions
How should the patient be positioned for percussing the heart borders?
Supine on an examining table
What is the recommended method of percussion for outlining the cardiac dullness?
Orthopercussion method of Plesch
Which finger position is recommended for the orthopercussion method of Plesch?
Middle finger at right angle to cardiac
What mistake do many beginners make when attempting to outline the cardiac dullness?
Striking too forcibly and failing to hear the slight change in percussion note caused by overlying lung
At which end of the first phalanx should the flexed finger be struck in the orthopercussion method of Plesch?
Distal end
Study Notes
Positioning for Percussing Heart Borders
- The patient should be positioned in a seated or supine position, with the chest exposed and the arm on the side being examined raised above the head.
Percussion Method for Outlining Cardiac Dullness
- The recommended method of percussion for outlining cardiac dullness is the orthopercussion method of Plesch.
- In this method, the flexed finger should be struck at the end of the first phalanx.
Finger Position for Orthopercussion Method
- The finger position recommended for the orthopercussion method of Plesch is a flexed finger.
Common Mistake in Outlining Cardiac Dullness
- Many beginners make the mistake of striking the chest wall too heavily or too lightly, which can lead to inaccurate results.
Test your knowledge of the method and importance of percussing the chest to confirm cardiac borders, size, contour, and position in the thorax. Learn about relative and absolute cardiac dullness, as well as the correct method of percussion for the heart.
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