Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Practice Exam

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During a chest examination, which structure should be palpated for tenderness?

Clavicles
Shoulders
Stomach
Hips

The correct answer is: Clavicles

During a chest examination, palpating the clavicles for tenderness is particularly relevant, as they are key bony structures located at the upper anterior region of the thorax. Tenderness in the clavicles can indicate various conditions, including fractures, especially following trauma, or other underlying issues like referred pain from thoracic injuries or pathologies affecting the lung or pleura. In contrast, the shoulders, stomach, and hips, while important areas in a comprehensive physical examination, do not serve as primary structures for assessing chest injuries or tenderness related to thoracic trauma. The clavicles are more directly associated with the thoracic cavity and can provide crucial diagnostic information in trauma assessments. Therefore, focusing on the clavicles allows for a targeted examination in cases of suspected chest trauma.