Demonstrating small amounts of intraperitoneal gas in patients with an acute abdomen is often necessary.How long should the patient lie in the left lateral position before the exposure is made?
A) 10 to 20 minutes
B) 30 to 45 minutes
C) Variable,depending on the body habitus
D) Variable,depending on the patient's condition

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lying in the left lateral position for 10 to 20 minutes allows any free intraperitoneal gas to rise and accumulate under the right hemidiaphragm, making it easier to detect on an X-ray.

Demonstrating Small Amounts of Intraperitoneal Gas in Patients with an Acute