Plain X-rays

Question 1

What are chest x-rays the best initial radiologic tests for?

Answer 1

Pulmonary complaints such as
-Cough
-SOB (dypsnea)
-Chest pain: pleuritic, when changing positions
-Sputum and Hemoptysis

Question 2

What is the best test of an Thoracic aorta disecction?

Answer 2

PA film showing widening of the mediastinum

Question 3

What i s best used to distinguish an effusion from an infiltrate caused by Pneumonia?

Answer 3

Decubitus X-ray: effusion confirmed if the fluid in chest is freely mobile and forms a layer on the side of the x-ray

Question 4

What must the patient be able to do for a PA film?

Answer 4

Stand up

Question 5

What is a bedside alternative to a PA film for a patient who cannot stand?

Answer 5

AP film

Question 6

What is the best use for an abdominal x-ray?

Answer 6

suspected SBO or Ileus: showing multiple air fluid levels in the small bowel

Question 7

What is the best initial test for osteomyelitis?

Answer 7

Bone x-ray: shows elevation of the periosteum: however, it will take at least 2 weeks for the bone x-ray to become abnormal