ARRT Thorax and Abdomen Procedures 2

Question 1

Which projection best demonstrates the right lung in a patient who cannot stand, when evaluating for pleural effusion?

Accepted Answer

Right lateral decubitus

Answer

The right lateral decubitus position (right side down) causes free pleural fluid to layer along the dependent right thoracic wall, making it visible on the AP projection.

Question 2

On a PA chest radiograph, the right hemidiaphragm is normally located at which vertebral level on full inspiration?

Accepted Answer

T10–T11

Answer

On a properly inspired PA chest, the right hemidiaphragm is normally seen at the level of the 10th–11th thoracic vertebra posteriorly.

Question 3

A technologist is performing an AP axial projection (Lindblom) of the ribs below the diaphragm. What kVp range is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

80–85 kVp

Answer

Ribs below the diaphragm overlie abdominal structures, requiring approximately 80–85 kVp to adequately penetrate the additional tissue.

Question 4

When performing a sternum lateral projection, which breathing technique is recommended to blur out overlying ribs and lung markings?

Accepted Answer

Shallow breathing during exposure

Answer

Shallow breathing (also called breathing technique) during the exposure blurs the ribs and pulmonary vasculature, improving visualization of the sternum.

Question 5

For a PA chest projection, the central ray is directed to which landmark?

Accepted Answer

T7 (level of inferior angle of scapula)

Answer

The central ray is directed perpendicular to the IR at the level of T7, which corresponds to the inferior angle of the scapula on the posterior surface.

ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Practice Test

ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Practice Test

ARRT Thorax and Abdomen Procedures 2