Ribs Positioning Quiz

Labeling pg. 510 Fig. 10.5

How are the anterior ends of the ribs situated in comparison to the posterior ribs?

3 to 5 inches below the level of their vertebral ends

What do we call the space between each of the ribs?

Intercostal spaces

For the upper anterior ribs, how would we want our patients general body position?

PA upright

Position of the IR for the PA projection of the ribs

Approximately 1 ½ inches above the upper border of the shoulders

How are the hands positioned for the PA projection?

Back of the hands on the hips

Respiration for the PA projection

Suspend at full inspiration to depress the diaphragm as much as possible

Respiration for the AP projection for ribs above the diaphragm

Suspend at full inspiration to depress the diaphragm

Respiration for the AP projection for ribs below the diaphragm

Suspend at full expiration to elevate the diaphragm

Respiration for the AP oblique projection (RPO/LPO)

Suspend at the end of full inspiration for the ribs above the diaphragm and at the end of deep expiration for ribs below the diaphragm

Respiration for the PA oblique projection (RAO/LAO)

Suspend at the end of full expiration for ribs below the diaphragm and at the end of full inspiration or ribs above the diaphragm

Central ray for the PA projection

Perpendicular to the center of the IR. If the IR is positioned correctly, the CR is at the level of T7

Central ray for the AP projection

Perpendicular to the center of the IR

Central ray for the AP oblique projection (RPO/LPO)

• Perpendicular to the center of the IR

• Closest to the IR

Central ray for the PA oblique projection (RAO/LAO)

Perpendicular to the center of the IR

What is the centering point for the AP projection?

• Centered to a point halfway between the xiphoid process and the lower rib margin

• The lower edge of the IR will be near the level of the iliac crests

The AP projection of the ribs above the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 1-10

The PA projection of the ribs above the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 1-7

The PA projection of the ribs below the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 1-9

The PA oblique projection of the ribs below the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 8-12

The PA oblique projection of the ribs above the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 1-10

The AP oblique projection of the ribs below the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 8-12

The AP oblique projection of the ribs above the diaphragm should demonstrate how many ribs?

Ribs 1-10

Degree of angulation for the oblique ribs

45 degrees

Which axillary portion of the ribs is projected free of superimposition with the thoracic spine for the AP oblique projection?

The ribs closest to the IR

Which axillary portion of the ribs is projected free of superimposition with the thoracic spine for the PA oblique projection?

The ribs farthest from the IR

How should your IR be positioned for the AP projection of the lower ribs?

Crosswise (14×17)