CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which position best demonstrates pleural effusion of the right lung?

1. Left Lateral Decubitus

2. Right Lateral Decubitus

3. Supine

4. Prone

The correct answer is: Right Lateral Decubitus

The right lateral decubitus position is the most effective for demonstrating pleural effusion in the right lung. This is because, in the lateral decubitus position, gravity causes the fluid to shift, allowing it to accumulate in the most dependent parts of the thoracic cavity. When the patient is positioned on their right side, any pleural fluid present in the right lung will move with gravity to the right costophrenic angle, making it more visible on the resulting radiographic image. This position is particularly advantageous for visualizing small amounts of fluid that might not be as clearly seen in other positions. In contrast, options like the left lateral decubitus would primarily show fluid in the left lung, supine would not provide a clear indication of effusion, and prone would alter the expected distribution of fluid due to the patient's orientation, making the fluid less visible. Therefore, using the right lateral decubitus position allows for optimal visualization of pleural effusions on imaging.