radiology

Question 1

how should a patient be positioned for a standard ‘PA’ view

Answer 1

they should be stood 2 meters from the x ray apparatus, facing the digital cassette, their shoulders should be braced forward so that the scapulae do not obscure the lungs and the radiograph is taken at full inspiration

Question 2

how do patients get a CXR is they can’t stand

Answer 2

they receive a ‘AP’ view CXR

Question 3

disadvantage of ‘AP’ view CXR

Answer 3

the heart shadow is magnified so heart size cannot be assessed accurately, the scapulae overlie and partly obscure the lungs and it can be difficult for the patient to fully inspire

Question 4

what should be done before you begin analysing a CXR

Answer 4

check patients name and CHI, check if there’s a side marker on the CXR and if you’re looking at it the correct way round

Question 5

how to tell if a CXR is adequate

Answer 5

adequate inspiration, correct rotation and correct penetration (enough radiation)

Question 6

what should be visible on CXR if it is correctly inspired

Answer 6

the anterior ends of at least 6 ribs

Question 7

what should be seen if a CXR is correctly centered

Answer 7

the medial ends of the clavicles should be equidistant from the spinous processes of the upper thoracic vertebrae