Safe and Effective Care Environment NCLEX RN Questions Related

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Improper placement of the hands under the rib cage when performing the Heimlich maneuver could result in:

  • A. damage to the manubrium of the sternum.
  • B. damage to the xiphoid process.
  • C. damage to the coccyx.
  • D. None of the above is possible, even with improper hand placement.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The xiphoid process is a small, cartilaginous extension at the inferior end of the sternum. Placing the hands improperly during the Heimlich maneuver too close to this process can result in it breaking off and potentially causing damage to internal organs. Choices A and C are incorrect because the manubrium of the sternum and the coccyx are not in the area where the hands would typically be placed during the Heimlich maneuver.