New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the New York State Basic EMT-B Exam. Use multiple choice questions and flashcards with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for the exam!

Practice this question and more.


What is the term for the back surface of the body?

  1. Anterior surface

  2. Medial surface

  3. Lateral surface

  4. Posterior surface

The correct answer is: Posterior surface

The term for the back surface of the body is referred to as the posterior surface. In anatomical terminology, the term "posterior" is used to describe structures that are towards the back of the body. This is a fundamental concept in anatomy that helps with the precise localization of body parts and is critical for effective communication in the medical field. Understanding the locations of different surfaces of the body is essential for assessing injuries, determining treatment protocols, and describing physical conditions accurately. Knowing that the posterior surface is opposite the anterior surface (which refers to the front of the body) aids in identifying areas of concern during examinations or procedures. Medial means closer to the midline of the body, and lateral means farther from the midline; these terms help in pinpointing the locations of structures in relation to one another but do not pertain to the back of the body directly.