A patient enters the ED with trauma to the bony thorax.The initial radiographs reveal that there are fractured ribs and a possible pneumothorax of the left thorax.The physician orders a chest study to confirm the pneumothorax; however, the patient cannot stand.Which of the following positions would best demonstrate the pneumothorax?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A right lateral decubitus position would best demonstrate a left pneumothorax in a patient who cannot stand, as it allows air to rise and be visualized against the lateral chest wall.

A Patient Enters the ED with Trauma to the Bony