CEA Nursing Practice Exam

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What is the normal liver span when percussing a healthy adult?

6-12 cm in the midsternal line
4-8 cm in the left midclavicular line
4-8 cm in the right midclavicular line
6-12 cm in the right midclavicular line

The correct answer is: 6-12 cm in the right midclavicular line

The normal liver span in a healthy adult is typically assessed by percussion and is measured in the right midclavicular line. A liver span of 6-12 cm indicates that the liver is within its normal size range and is a crucial parameter in evaluating liver health. When percussing in the right midclavicular line, the clinician listens for a change in sound that indicates the border of the liver. The measurement reflects both the anatomical size of the liver as well as its position in the abdominal cavity. Deviations from this normal range can indicate potential liver pathology or enlargement, prompting further assessment or diagnostic measures. In contrast, liver span measurements in other locations, such as the midsternal line or left midclavicular line, do not provide accurate or relevant assessments of liver size and position. Thus, establishing the correct range in the right midclavicular line is essential for effective clinical evaluation.