Maritess was recently diagnosed with a genitourinary problem and is being examined in the emergency department. When palpating her kidneys, the nurse should keep which anatomical fact in mind?
A. The left kidney usually is slightly higher than the right one.
B. The kidneys are situated just above the adrenal glands.
C. The average kidney is approximately 5 cm (2 inches) long and 2 to 3 cm 3/4 inch to 1 1/8 inch) wide.
D. The kidneys lie between the 10th and 12th thoracic vertebrae.
Correct Answer: A. The left kidney usually is slightly higher than the right one.
The left kidney usually is slightly higher than the right one. An adrenal gland lies atop each kidney.
Option C: The average kidney measures approximately 11 cm (4-3/8″) long, 5 to 5.8 cm (2″ to 2 1/4”) wide, and 2.5 cm (1″) thick.
Option B: The kidneys are located retroperitoneally, in the posterior aspect of the abdomen, on either side of the vertebral column.
Option D: They lie between the 12th thoracic and 3rd lumbar vertebrae.