Question

If patient is supine, PNA most commonly involves which lobe____if supine or _________if patient is sitting/semirecumbant.

Answer 1

Pneumonia tends to affect the posterior segment of the upper lobe or the superior segment of the lower lobe when a patient is supine. If the patient is sitting up, it most commonly involves the basal segments of the lower lobes

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is supine, that is, lying on their back face up, the most common lobe of the lung to be involved with pneumonia (PNA) is the posterior segment of the upper lobe or the superior segment of the lower lobe. Conversely, if the patient is sitting up or in a semi-recumbent position, pneumonia tends to occur in the basal segments of the lower lobes.

The position of the body affects the distribution of fluids due to gravity, and therefore the location where pathogens may settle and cause infection. This is particularly relevant in patients who have difficulty mobilizing, such as those who are sedated or have impaired consciousness.

Answer 2

If patient is supine, PNA most commonly involves which lobe the right middle, if supine or the X-ray primarily captures the right upper lobe if patient is sitting/semirecumbant.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is supine, posteroanterior (PNA) chest X-rays most commonly involve the right middle lobe. However, if the patient is sitting or in a semirecumbent position, the X-ray primarily captures the right upper lobe. This positioning plays a crucial role in optimizing image acquisition and ensuring that specific lung areas are well visualized.

The gravitational effect on the lung parenchyma contributes to these variations. The right middle lobe is better visualized in the supine position due to its posterior location, while the right upper lobe becomes more prominent in the sitting or semirecumbent position.

Understanding these nuances aids in accurate diagnosis and assessment of pulmonary conditions, allowing healthcare professionals to interpret radiographic images effectively.