IMMOBILIZATION TECHNIQUES Flashcards
What is the primary goal of the Radiographer?
To produce the most diagnostic radiograph with the least amount of radiation exposure to the patient.
What is immobilization?
A method of applying restrictive measures to prevent patient/part movement.
How does immobilization affect motion on radiographs?
Immobilization, in addition to communication, will reduce motion on radiographs.
What can cause blurring on a radiograph?
The slightest movement from the patient.
IMMOBILIZATION PRINCIPLES
Motion distortion is one of the most significant contributing factors to unacceptable image quality.
Positioning inaccuracies also contribute to suboptimum image quality.
Motion distortion can result from involuntary and voluntary patient position
Communication with the patient is critical to effective immobilization.
Use the shortest exposure time possible.
Use immobilization aids when possible.
Empathy with the patient’s condition can be effective in facilitating good immobilization.
What types of motion can affect radiographs?
Motion can be voluntary or involuntary
will cause motion on radiographs and will result in the need to repeat radiographs and increase the radiation exposure to the patient.
.
Voluntary Motion
Can be controlled by the patient and occurs as a result of inadequate communication by the technologist.
Involuntary Motion
due to contributing factors such as temperature, shock, neurological disorders, and medication.
COMMUNICATION
The most effective means of reducing motion and ensuring that the patient cooperates during X-ray procedures is communication.
The technologist needs to give the patient instructions in simple terms that the patient understands.
Communication is not limited to verbal instructions. Patients respond well to demonstrations and other methods of communication.
What are the two types of immobilization methods?
Simple and involved immobilization.
COMMUNICATION -RAPPORT & EMPATHY
Communication also includes establishing a good rapport and showing empathy for the patient.
Rapport
Rapport – is a relationship of harmony and accord between two persons, this begins from the introduction and continues throughout the procedure.
Empathy
being able to enter the patients’ emotions. In a sense it means the technologist is able to see things from the patient’s perspective or emotional state. Having empathy for a patient is different from having sympathy or feeling sorry for the patient.
What is an example of simple immobilization?
Using sandbags and sponges to help a patient maintain a position.
What is an example of involved immobilization?
Using complex immobilization devices such as spinal trauma boards, that will hold a patient completely still
RESTRAINT
Restraining requires a physician’s order and is usually done to prevent them from injuring themselves.
Restraints for adults are usually applied before the patient arrives in the radiology department and may consist of wrist and ankle bands fastened to the bed or stretcher.
Immobilization and restraint devices must never interfere with the patient’s circulation or respiration.
What is required before restraining a patient?
A physician’s order.
immobilization
Ideal patient immobilization devices should possess the following features:
Radiolucency
Flexibility
Durability
Reproducibility
Safety and reliability
No image artifacts
Types of immobilization Devices
Positioning sponges
Sheets
Sandbags
Velcro straps
Head clamps
Commercial devices
Cervical collar
Spine board
Splints
Sheet restraints
Commercial restraint devices
Stockinettes
Tape
What should immobilization and restraint devices never interfere with?
The patient’s circulation or respiration.