Which statement accurately describes the standard anatomical position?
Choose an answer, then check it.
Medical Office Assistant · Foundational Medical Knowledge
Directional Terms, Body Planes, and Body Cavities
On this page 3 sections
Quick check
5 questions here, of 74 in this lesson’s practice set. Answers stay hidden until you check.
In the standard anatomical position, the palms of the hands face which direction?
Choose an answer, then check it.
Why is a standard anatomical position used when describing the human body?
Choose an answer, then check it.
A patient is lying supine (face up) on the examination table. In this position, the patient's anterior surface faces which direction?
Choose an answer, then check it.
In the standard anatomical position, the thumbs point in which direction?
Choose an answer, then check it.
Study tools & related lessonsYou’ll learn to · Related
You’ll learn to
- Define the standard anatomical position and apply the directional terms superior, inferior, anterior (ventral), posterior (dorsal), medial, lateral, proximal, and distal.
- Identify the major body planes (sagittal, midsagittal, parasagittal, coronal/frontal, transverse, and oblique) and the portions of the body each divides.
- Identify the major body cavities (cranial, spinal, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic) and the structures each protects.
- Apply directional terms, body planes, and body cavities together to locate structures and interpret basic documentation.
Sources & references
- OpenStax — Anatomy and Physiology 2e
- U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
This lesson was adapted from the open educational references above; their licenses and attributions are preserved. See Copyright & Licensing.
Educational content only. It is not medical, legal or professional advice. Found an error? Tell us.