Final answer:
Proper positioning for a lateral chest X-ray includes having the patient's side against the image receptor, shoulders aligned, coronal plane perpendicular to the cassette, expanding the chest wall, and ensuring clear lines of sight for the thoracic cage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Steps for Positioning for a Lateral Chest X-ray:
The following eight steps are key to properly positioning a patient for a lateral chest x-ray:
- Have the patient stand with their left side against the image receptor. The left arm should be raised, with the pectoral girdle muscles visible and accessible for positioning.
- Position the patient's feet shoulder-width apart to ensure stability.
- Ensure the patient's shoulders are at the same elevation, which may require adjusting their stance or arm positioning.
- Align the patient so that the coronal plane is perpendicular to the cassette, using the clavicles as a guide for vertical positioning.
- Instruct the patient to roll their shoulders forward to properly expand the chest wall and allow for full lung expansion.
- Have the patient take in a deep breath and hold it to further expand the chest and decrease the intrapleural pressure, aiding in a clear image.
- Confirm that the hands are not obstructing the field and that the chin is raised to avoid superimposition over the thoracic spine.
- Finally, make any minor adjustments to center the thoracic cavity within the frame, ensuring the sternum is in line with the long axis of the image receptor.
Accurate positioning is essential for diagnostic imaging as it ensures a high-quality view of the thoracic cage, sternum, and ribs without distortion.