The ridge under the sternal notch correlates with which rib?

The ridge under the sternal notch, also known as the jugular notch, is a prominent anatomical landmark that corresponds to the level of the second rib. This ridge is located at the superior border of the manubrium, which is the upper part of the sternum.

The reason the second rib aligns with the sternal notch is due to the anatomy of the thoracic cage. The sternal notch serves as a reference point for locating the second rib, as it sits directly above the second costal cartilage. Clinical practitioners often use this landmark for various physical assessment techniques, such as palpating the ribs or counting ribs for pulmonary examinations.

Understanding this anatomical relationship is essential in physical assessment, as it aids in locating other thoracic structures and conducting procedures such as chest auscultation or identifying issues related to the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.