A lateral chest projection demonstrates the posterior ribs separated by 2.5 inches (6.35 cm). The superior heart shadow does not extend into the anteriorly situated lung. How should the patient be repositioned to obtain an optimal image?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A lateral chest projection should demonstrate the posterior ribs overlapped slightly, which indicates that the patient's chest is in a slightly oblique position. The posterior ribs separated by 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) on this image indicate that the patient's chest is in a significantly lateral position. Therefore, the patient should be repositioned to bring the posterior ribs closer together. Option C suggests repositioning the right side of the chest 1 inch (2.5 cm) posteriorly, which would help bring the posterior ribs closer together, and thus, provide an optimal image.

A Lateral Chest Projection Demonstrates the Posterior Ribs Separated by 2.5