Tag: Point of maximal impulse

According to the American Heart Association, a resting pulse rate is a key indicator of cardiac health. In a medical setting, determining the most accurate heart rate often requires understanding what is meant by apical point, a term for the tip of an organ, particularly the apex of the heart.

The left 5th intercostal space in the midclavicular line is a key anatomical landmark for healthcare professionals, as it is where the heart's point of maximal impulse can best be heard during a physical exam. This guide explains exactly how to find the 5th intercostal space using reliable bony landmarks on the chest.