Where is the normal apical impulse (point of maximal impulse [PMI]) usually identified?

a. Third right intercostal space, left sternal border
b. Fifth left intercostal space, midclavicular line
c. Third left intercostal space, anterior axil-lary line
d. Fifth right intercostal space, midclavicular line

ANS: B
In healthy individuals who are not obese or overly muscular, the PMI can be felt and visualized near the left midclavicular line in the fifth intercostal space.