a vertical plane that divides body into right and left side

A horizontal plane that divides the body into upper and lower parts

An oblique plane dividing body in two parts

IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Applied Anatomy

Easy

Sagittal plane is :

Appeared in: IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Explanation

The sagittal plane is defined as a vertical plane that passes through the body from top to bottom.
Its primary function is to divide the body or any of its parts into right and left sections.
A special type, the midsagittal or median plane, runs exactly along the body's midline, creating equal left and right halves.
Any sagittal plane that is parallel to the midline but not on it is called a parasagittal plane.

Option B: This describes a biological structure, specifically a serous membrane like the visceral pleura or peritoneum, which covers organs. It is not an anatomical plane used for directional reference.
Option C: This is the definition of the transverse plane, also known as the horizontal or axial plane. It runs parallel to the ground.
Option D: This defines an oblique plane, which cuts through the body at any angle that is not a right angle to the other three main planes (sagittal, coronal, transverse).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomical Body Planes as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Knowledge of anatomical planes is essential for interpreting medical imaging. CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds present images as 'slices' in the sagittal, coronal, or transverse (axial) planes.
Healthcare professionals use these terms to accurately describe the location of organs, tumors, injuries, and the direction of surgical incisions.
For example, a 'midline incision' is made along the midsagittal plane.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing fundamental knowledge of anatomy.
First, identify the key term in the question stem: 'Sagittal plane'.
Recall the definitions of the primary anatomical planes: sagittal (left/right), coronal (front/back), and transverse (top/bottom).
The sagittal plane is a vertical plane that divides the body into left and right portions.
Scan the options to find the one that matches this definition.
Option A directly matches the definition. Eliminate the other options by identifying what they describe: Option C is the transverse plane, Option D is the oblique plane, and Option B is not a plane at all.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 2 p. 109-111

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 45-47

E6 Anatomy Grays 43e Vol 1 Part 1 p. 21-23

Practise the full IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.