The central point that is used when the abdomen is divided into four quadrants is the:

• A. xiphoid process
• B. iliac crest
• C. pubic symphysis
• D. umbilicus

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the abdomen is divided into four quadrants for anatomical and clinical purposes. These quadrants are the right upper quadrant (RUQ), left upper quadrant (LUQ), right lower quadrant (RLQ), and left lower quadrant (LLQ).
2. Recognize that the central point used to divide the abdomen into these quadrants is the umbilicus, which is the belly button. It serves as the reference point for both the horizontal and vertical lines that divide the abdomen.
3. Visualize the division process: A vertical line is drawn from the sternum (xiphoid process) down to the pubic symphysis, passing through the umbilicus. A horizontal line is drawn across the abdomen at the level of the umbilicus, creating the four quadrants.
4. Clarify why the other options are incorrect: The xiphoid process is located at the base of the sternum and is not central to the abdomen. The iliac crest is part of the pelvic bone and is lateral, not central. The pubic symphysis is located at the lower end of the pelvis and is not used as the central reference point.
5. Conclude that the umbilicus is the correct anatomical landmark for dividing the abdomen into quadrants because it is centrally located and easily identifiable.