A lateral thoracic projection with poor positioning demonstrates more than 0.5 inch (1 cm) of space between the posterior ribs. How should the patient be positioned for an optimal projection to be obtained?
1)Rotate the patient's elevated side anteriorly.
2)Position the midsagittal plane perpendicular to the imaging table.
3)Center the central ray and IR superiorly.
4)Align the shoulders, posterior ribs, and posterior wings perpendicular to the imaging table.
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 4 only
C) 2 only
D) 2 and 3 only

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To obtain an optimal lateral thoracic projection, the patient should be positioned with the elevated side rotated anteriorly (1) and the shoulders, posterior ribs, and posterior wings aligned perpendicular to the imaging table (4). This will help reduce the space between the posterior ribs, allowing for better visualization of the thoracic structures. Positioning the midsagittal plane perpendicular to the imaging table (2) and centering the central ray and IR superiorly (3) are also important steps for obtaining an optimal projection, but they do not directly address the issue of the space between the posterior ribs.

A Lateral Thoracic Projection with Poor Positioning Demonstrates More Than