ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) Practice Test 2025 - Free ARDMS Practice Questions and Study Guide

An abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique primarily used to visualize and assess the abdominal organs. The examination typically focuses on the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen, which are all critical components of the abdominal cavity. This imaging modality is particularly effective in evaluating conditions such as liver disease, gallstones, pancreatitis, and splenic abnormalities.

While options referencing only the kidneys, the heart and lungs, or the uterus and ovaries represent important areas of medical concern, they fall outside the typical scope of an abdominal ultrasound. The kidneys would be evaluated specifically in renal ultrasounds; the heart and lungs are assessed through echocardiograms and chest imaging respectively; and a gynecological ultrasound would be focused on the uterus and ovaries. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the comprehensive nature of what an abdominal ultrasound aims to assess in the upper abdominal area.