CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What technique is primarily used for mobile radiography in emergency situations?

1. Portable X-ray machine

2. Fixed radiography unit

3. Fluoroscopy

4. Digital radiography system

The correct answer is: Portable X-ray machine

The primary technique used for mobile radiography in emergency situations is a portable X-ray machine. This device is specifically designed for use outside of the traditional radiology department, allowing healthcare professionals to perform imaging in various settings, including emergency rooms, trauma centers, or even patients' bedsides. Portable X-ray machines are compact, easily transportable, and can quickly provide critical imaging without the need for the patient to be moved. In emergency scenarios, rapid decision-making is crucial, and portable X-ray units enable immediate assessment of injuries or conditions, such as fractures or pneumothorax, without delaying treatment. While fixed radiography units, fluoroscopy, and digital radiography systems have their merits and are used in many medical contexts, they are not suited for mobile applications where flexibility and mobility are essential. Fixed units are stationary and require patients to be transported, whereas fluoroscopy requires specialized setup and often involves a stationary system. Digital radiography, while it can be mobile, typically doesn’t match the portability and immediacy offered by a dedicated portable X-ray machine in urgent situations.