Radiographic Image Analysis Quiz 1

A PA chest radiograph shows that the left sternoclavicular joint is superimposed over the spine (in comparison with the right joint). What specific positioning error is involved?

Rotation into a left anterior oblique (LAO) position

A patient comes to the radiology department with a clinical history of pneumoperitoneum. The patient is able to stand. Which of the following projections best demonstrates this condition?

AP erect abdomen

A radiograph of an AP projection of the abdomen shows that the right iliac wing is wider than the left. What type of positioning error was involved?

Rotation toward the right

A technologist is evaluating an abdominal radiograph that appears slightly blurred, with the outlines of the kidneys and psoas muscles less distinct than expected. To minimize motion and improve soft‑tissue visibility on the repeat image, which breathing instruction should the technologist select to optimize abdominal organ placement and reduce diaphragm‑related motion?

Suspend on expiration

A technologist reviews a PA chest radiograph and notices that portions of the scapulae are still superimposed over the upper lung fields, obscuring important pulmonary detail. Before repeating the image, the technologist must determine which positioning adjustment will most effectively clear the scapulae from the lungs by altering their rotational and lateral placement. Which action should be taken to correct the error?

Roll the shoulders forward

Approximately _________ inch(es) of apical lung field should be visible above the clavicles on a PA projection of the chest. 

1

Does this image meet diagnostic evaluation criteria? Select all that apply.

A.

Yes, arm or its soft tissues not superimposing apices

B.

No, arm or its soft tissues are superimposing apices

C.

Yes, costophrenic angles and apices are included on the image

D.

No, costophrenic angles and apices are not included on the image

E.

Yes, posterior ribs are superimposed

F.

No, posterior ribs are not superimposed

B.

No, arm or its soft tissues are superimposing apices

C.

Yes, costophrenic angles and apices are included on the image

F.

No, posterior ribs are not superimposed

During image evaluation of a PA chest radiograph, a technologist notes that the lung fields appear under‑expanded and the costophrenic angles are not fully demonstrated. To determine whether the patient achieved an adequate level of inspiration, the technologist counts the visible posterior ribs above the diaphragm. Based on accepted criteria for a well‑inspired adult PA chest, how many posterior ribs should be present to confirm optimal inspiration?

9

For an AP projection of the supine abdomen, the ____ lumbar vertebrae should be centered to the IR/CR

4th

How could this positioning error be corrected if this image was repeated?

Adjust the central ray and IR to enter patient higher.

Identify the anatomy marked by the arrow.

Right Kidney

Identify the anatomy marked by the outline and arrow.

Pubic symphysis

Identify this patient’s position.

Right lateral decubitus position

In this lateral image of the chest, which letter represents the hilum of the lungs?

I

The letter C represents which anatomic structure on this image?

Psoas muscle

The letter E represents what anatomic structure on this PA projection of the chest?

Left costophrenic angle

Which of the following anatomic structures is examined to determine rotation on a PA chest radiograph?

Symmetric appearance and location of sternoclavicular joints

Which of the following chest projections/positions is recommended to detect calcifications or cavitation within the upper lung region beneath the clavicles?

AP lordotic

Which of the following objects should be removed (or moved) before chest radiography? Select all that apply.

A.

Necklace

B.

Bra

C.

Dentures

D.

Pants

E.

Shirt

F.

Oxygen lines

Necklace, bra, shirt, oxygen lines

Which positioning maneuver would best improve this image if repeated?

Obtain a second image to include clipped anatomy