k. Standard Positions. Standard positions are those positions commonly
taken on average, cooperative patients. These standard positions are often referred to
as routine exams. Departmental standards for routine exams are fairly consistent
throughout the United States (US). A survey was completed to determine the national norms for
standard and optional (additional) operating procedures. The routines in this subcourse
are based on that survey.
l. Subcourse Parameters. This text is designed to provide a general overview
of basic radiographic positions and is not intended to make you a radiologic
technologist. Further training and practical clinical experience are necessary for you to
become proficient in this health care profession.
1-2.
PATIENT DRESS, ARTIFACTS, AND IMMOBILIZATION
a. Guidance on Dress/Artifact Removal. Removal of clothing and artifacts is
not always desirable or possible. The guidance on the removal of the patient's clothing
and the removal of any artifacts that might get in the way of obtaining a good clear,
unobstructed exposure is covered in figure 1-2. In the order of procedure charts
specific to the various projections, this issue of patient dress and artifacts is addressed
in the most cursory fashion with the stock statement: remove artifacts. Remember to
refer back to figure 1-2 as you go through the various positions if you have some doubts
as to correct procedure for clothing and artifact removal.
Patient:
Removes wristwatch.
HAND
Removes bracelets.
Removes rings.
Removes wristwatch and bracelets.
WRIST & FORARM
Rolls up sleeves.
HUMERUS
Strips to the waist and puts on gown..
Removes outer garments.
Removes undergarments (shoulder to
waist).
CHEST
Removes necklaces and pendants.
Dons gown.
Removes outer clothing.
ABDOMEN &
Removes undergarments (girdles).
PELVIS
Dons gown.
Removes pants.
KNEE & FEMUR
Removes panty hose.
Dons gown.
Figure 1-2. Guidelines for removal of artifacts and clothing by body part.
MD0962
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