Where it is
Right lower quadrant. McBurney's point lies one-third of the way from the anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus.
What it does
Contains lymphoid tissue and may serve as a reservoir for gut bacteria. It is not essential.
Clinical relevance
- Appendicitis pain classically starts around the umbilicus and moves to the right lower quadrant.
- Rupture causes peritonitis: rigid board-like abdomen, fever and tachycardia.
Nursing focus
- With suspected appendicitis: no heat, no enemas or laxatives, keep NPO and report sudden relief of pain.