CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What position is generally recommended for patients during an AP projection of the foot?

1. Dorsiflexed

2. Supine with the foot flat

3. Seated with the knee bent

4. Elevated on a stool

The correct answer is: Supine with the foot flat

The recommended position for patients during an AP projection of the foot is supine with the foot flat. This positioning ensures that the foot is properly aligned and stabilized, which is critical for obtaining a clear and diagnostic radiographic image. When the patient is supine, the entire leg can be flat against the imaging surface, reducing any potential distortion or elongation of the foot that might occur if it were positioned differently. Having the foot flat also allows for the central ray to be directed accurately, helping to visualize the anatomy of the foot, including the bones and joints, without superimposition. Dorsiflexion is not typically used for an AP projection as it may cause misalignment and compromise the quality of the image. Seated with the knee bent could lead to varying angles of projection and might not provide the level of consistency needed for effective imaging. Elevating the foot on a stool is also inappropriate, as it can create an angle that may distort the positioning of the foot and affect the radiographic outcome. By keeping the patient supine with the foot flat, the radiographer maximizes the potential for a successful and accurate AP projection.