When conducting a FAST examination in the left upper quadrant, which two organs are observed?

In a FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) examination, when evaluating the left upper quadrant, the primary focus is on identifying fluid accumulation around specific organs that are commonly affected in trauma cases. The spleen, being the largest organ in the left upper quadrant, is particularly important as it is at risk for laceration or rupture in trauma situations. The kidney, located posterior to the spleen, is also examined because it can sustain injury in similar traumatic incidents.

Thus, the presence of fluid or trauma near these two organs can provide critical information regarding the extent of injury and guide further medical intervention. This is why identifying the spleen and kidney during the examination is essential, making it the correct answer in the context of a FAST examination.

In contrast, while the lung is present in the thoracic cavity and vital for assessing respiratory conditions, it is not the primary focus in the left upper quadrant when conducting a FAST examination. The heart, primarily assessed in the pericardial space, is more relevant in dealing with traumatic cardiac events rather than organ-specific evaluations in the upper quadrants. The pancreas, while located in the abdominal cavity, is located more centrally and is less commonly associated with FAST examinations focused on the left upper quadrant.