CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What should be done if posterior ribs are demonstrating in an AP position?

1. Turn affected ribs away from IR

2. Turn affected ribs toward IR

3. Adjust vertical positioning

4. Change the patient's orientation

The correct answer is: Turn affected ribs toward IR

When posterior ribs are demonstrating in an AP position, turning the affected ribs toward the image receptor (IR) is the correct action to enhance visualization of the structures desired. This positioning allows the ribs that are being examined to be projected more clearly onto the IR, minimizing the geometric distortion and providing a more accurate representation of their anatomical relationships. Positioning the affected ribs toward the IR reduces the likelihood of superimposition by keeping them closer to the receptor. This technique leads to better image quality, allowing for precise assessment of any potential pathologies or abnormalities. Adjusting vertical positioning or changing the patient’s orientation may not specifically address the issue of the ribs' projection in relation to the IR, which is crucial for high-quality imaging. Therefore, these adjustments may not directly improve the diagnostic quality regarding the posterior ribs in an AP view.