Word parts
clavicul/o collarbone
What it means
The collarbone joins the breastbone to the scapulaSKAP-yuh-luhThe flat, triangle-shaped bone at the back of each shoulder; the shoulder blade.scapul/o shoulder bladeFull entry (shoulder blade) and holds the shoulder out to the side. It can be felt under the skin. It is one of the most commonly broken bones, from falls on the shoulder or outstretched hand, and newborns can break it during a difficult birth. Large veins just under it are common sites for central lines.
For the nurse
In a newborn, check that both arms move equally; a baby who does not move one arm may have a broken clavicle. After a central line is placed below the clavicle, watch for breathing changes that could mean a collapsed lung.
At a glance
| Everyday words | collarbone |
|---|---|
| Spanish | clavícula |
| Also written | clavicles, clavicular |