Proper patient positioning is essential to ensure that the X-ray beam targets the area of interest while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues. This helps reduce unnecessary radiation dose while achieving the best possible image quality.
Explaining the procedure helps reduce anxiety, informs the patient about what to expect, and ensures they understand the positioning and movement restrictions during the procedure. This also helps prevent motion artifacts in the images.
Immobilization devices (such as straps, sandbags, or support cushions) are often used to help keep the patient still and maintain the proper position for the X-ray, ensuring accurate results and minimizing the need for retakes.
When imaging a pregnant patient, it's crucial to minimize radiation exposure, especially to the abdomen. The lowest possible radiation dose should be used, and the abdominal area should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If possible, alternative imaging methods (like ultrasound) should be considered.
For chest X-rays, holding the breath during the exposure ensures that the lungs are fully expanded, which is necessary for a clear image. The patient should be instructed to take a deep breath and hold it to prevent blurring caused by movement during the procedure.
