Chest Xray Flashcards
What is the importance of knowing what a normal CXR looks like?
To recognize abnormalities.
What is a systematic approach in interpreting a CXR?
A methodical evaluation considering various factors like name, marker, rotation, and penetration.
What should you do if a previous CXR is available?
Compare it to assess for change.
What are the components to assess in a CXR?
- Name/marker/rotation/penetration
- Lines/metal work
- Heart
- Mediastinum
- Lungs
- Zones (upper/middle/lower)
- Bones
- Diaphragm
- Soft Tissues
What should be assessed regarding the heart in a CXR?
It occupies up to 50% of the maximum internal thoracic diameter on a standard PA erect view.
Why can’t heart size be commented on an AP view?
Due to magnification of the heart.
What should be observed about the mediastinum in a CXR?
Hilar vascular structures should be crisply defined and no widening of mediastinum.
What is the significance of the trachea’s position in a CXR?
It should be central.
What is important when assessing the lungs in a CXR?
Compare upper, mid, and lower zones and look between ribs for lung detail.
What should be noted about the diaphragm in a CXR?
Both diaphragms should form a sharp margin with the lateral chest wall.
What does an enlarged supraclavicular fossa indicate?
Possible enlarged nodes.
What does the presence of surgical emphysema indicate?
Lateral chest wall involvement.
What is the significance of the stomach gas bubble in a CXR?
It should be present; absence may indicate issues.
What should you summarize when interpreting a CXR?
State the view, heart size, mediastinal contours, and lung clarity.
What are key take-home points for interpreting a CXR?
- Be systematic
- Review with history and physical examination in mind.
What conditions can be indicated by an abnormal chest X-ray?
- Atelectasis
- Pleural Effusion
- Tumor
- Pneumonia
- Pneumothorax
- ARDS
Where should the tip of the endotracheal tube be positioned?
2cm above the carina.
What indicates correct placement of a right internal jugular central line?
It should be at the origin of the superior vena cava.
What is the consequence of a central line being too deep?
It may enter the right atrium.
Fill in the blank: The presence of _______ in the pleural space indicates a pleural effusion.
fluid
True or False: The lungs should be assessed for clarity in a CXR.
True
