The mitral area (also known as the left ventricular area or the apical area). the fifth intercostal space (ICS) at the left midclavicular line. is the best area for auscultating the apical pulse. The aortic arch is the second ICS to the right of sternum. The pulmonic area is the second intercostal space to the left of the sternum. The tricuspid area is the fifth ICS to the left of the sternum.