Practice Question
Which statement is accurate about assessing the spleen?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
It must be enlarged at least three times normal size for it to be palpable.
Rationale:
◆The normal spleen is not palpable on routine examination; it must be significantly enlarged (≈3× normal) to descend below the costal margin.
◆Splenomegaly extends the spleen inferomedially, making the anterior tip potentially palpable on deep inspiration.
◆Clinical techniques (e.g., Traube’s space percussion, Castell’s sign) help screen for enlargement before attempting deep palpation.
◆Palpation is performed gently to avoid capsular rupture, especially in markedly enlarged, fragile spleens.
◆Recognition of this threshold prevents false positives and focuses assessment on reliable signs of enlargement.
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This question is from HESI RN HEALTH ASSESSMENT WGU EXAM 2 which contains 58 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: HESI Exam(s)
- Domain: 🏡HESI-Health Assessment
- Answer Choices: 4