CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

If a PA chest radiograph shows the left clavicle closer to the center of the spine compared to the right, what action should the MRT take?

1. Turn the left side closer to the image receptor (IR)

2. Turn the right side closer to the image receptor (IR)

3. Accept the image due to the patient's kyphosis

4. Roll the shoulders and ensure the central ray is on the center of the spine

The correct answer is: Turn the right side closer to the image receptor (IR)

In the scenario where a PA chest radiograph reveals that the left clavicle is positioned closer to the center of the spine than the right, this indicates that there may be a rotation of the thoracic spine or torso during the imaging process. To achieve a more accurate depiction of the chest, particularly in terms of symmetrical positioning of the clavicles, the appropriate action is to turn the right side closer to the image receptor. By adjusting the right side nearer to the IR, the MRT can help correctly align the patient's shoulders and thoracic cavity, effectively reducing the rotational distortion seen in the radiograph. This corrective maneuver moves the anatomy into a more neutral position, helping to ensure that the clavicles are aligned symmetrically in relation to the spine. This is crucial for accurate interpretation of a chest radiograph, providing clear diagnostic information and avoiding misdiagnosis based on improper positioning. While factors like patient kyphosis can influence image appearance, it shouldn't be the only reason for accepting an image without adjustments. Moreover, rolling the shoulders or aiming the central ray at the center of the spine, although helpful in certain contexts, does not address the underlying issue of torso rotation captured in the initial image. Hence, repositioning by turning the right side closer to the