Chest XR Flashcards
What is the first step in interpreting a chest X-ray (CXR)?
Have a systematic approach
What should you always compare a current CXR with, if available?
Previous CXR
What is the maximum internal thoracic diameter that the heart occupies on a standard PA erect view?
Up to 50%
True or False: You can accurately comment on heart size using an AP view.
False
What should the trachea look like on a normal CXR?
Central
List the zones of the lungs as referenced in the systematic approach.
- Upper zone
- Middle zone
- Lower zone
What should both diaphragms form with the lateral chest wall?
A sharp margin
What should you look for in the supraclavicular fossae?
Enlarged nodes
What does the presence of sternal wires indicate?
Previous thoracic surgery
What is the significance of the tip of the endotracheal tube?
Should be 2cm above carina
What condition is indicated by fluid in the pleural space?
Pleural Effusion
What should you remember to look for behind the heart?
Lung detail
Fill in the blank: The position of the stomach gas bubble is _______ on this CXR.
not present
What should the contours of both diaphragms be like medially to the spine?
Clearly visible
What is the proper placement for a central venous line?
At origin of superior vena cava
What does ARDS stand for?
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
What is a potential complication indicated by surgical emphysema in the lateral chest wall?
Air leak or pneumothorax
How should you summarize a normal CXR?
“The heart is not enlarged, the mediastinal contours are normal and the lungs are clear”
What is the implication of the NG tube placement in relation to the distal esophagus?
It should be properly placed
What view is typically used to assess the heart size accurately?
PA erect view
What should you check regarding the clavicles while interpreting a CXR?
They should be equidistant from spinous processes of thoracic spine
What does the presence of pneumoperitoneum indicate?
Air under diaphragm
What is the significance of the position of the right mainstem?
Indicates potential for atelectasis
What type of X-ray is referenced in the summary?
Erect chest X-Ray
