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Complications
The only risk associated with chest x ray is minimal exposure to radiation, particularly for pregnant women and children. Those patients should use protective lead aprons during the procedure. Technologists are cautioned to carefully check possible dislodging of any tubes or monitors in the chest area from the patient's placement during the exam, if IVs (intravenous lines) or chest tubes are in place.
Results
A radiologist, or physician specially trained in the technique and interpretation of x rays, will evaluate the results. A normal chest x ray will show normal structures for the age and medical history or the patient. Findings, whether normal or abnormal, will be provided to the referring physician in the form of a written report.
Abnormal findings on chest x rays are used in conjunction with a physician's physical exam, medical history and other diagnostic tests to reach a final diagnosis. Often a patient can have normal appearing x rays and still have underlying diseases or conditions. Interpretation of chest x rays is most accurate when compared to previous chest studies. The patient may be asked to help the radiology facility in locating previous chest radiographs from other facilities.
Health care team roles
The technologist performing the chest x ray is a highly trained professional and provides films for the radiologist to interpret. The technologist should be able to be versatile, should the patient have any physical challenges in complying with the x ray. In performing bedside, or portable chest x rays, often the assistance of nursing staff becomes necessary due to the condition of the patient. It should be the goal of both the technologist and/or nurse to ensure patient comfort, while getting the best possible radiograph.
Patient education
The technologist will explain the exam to the patient so that they feel comfortable with the procedure. Most adult patients are familiar with a chest x ray, nevertheless, a brief discussion between technologist and patient is important. Keeping the patient immobile during the exposure will limit having to repeat the x ray.
KEY TERMS
Bronchi—Plural of bronchus. The air passages in the lungs through which inhaled air passes on its way to the lungs.
Diaphragm—The large muscle that is located between the abdomen and the chest area. The diaphragm aids in breathing.
Gastrointestinal—The digestive organs and structures, including the stomach and intestines.
Interstitial lung disease—About 180 diseases fall into this category of breathing disorders. Injury or foreign substances in the lungs, (such as asbestos fibers) as well as infections, cancers, or inherited disorders may cause the diseases. They can lead to breathing or heart failure.
Lymphoid—Tissues relating to the lymphatic system. A thin yellowish fluid, called lymph fluid, travels throughout the body. The lymphatic system helps control fluids in the body.
Portable chest x ray—An x ray procedure taken by equipment that can be brought to the patient. The resulting radiographs may not be as high in quality as stationary x ray radiographs, but allow a technologist to come to the bedridden patient.
Pulmonary—Refers to the lungs and the breathing system and function.
Serial x rays—A number of x rays performed over time in the disease progression or treatment intervals. The radiographs will be compared to one another to track changes.
Sternum—Also referred to as the breast bone, this is the long flat bone in the middle of the chest.
Thorax—The chest area, which runs between the abdomen and neck and is encased in the ribs.
X ray—A form of electromagnetic radiation with shorter wavelengths than normal light. X rays can penetrate most structures.
ORGANIZATIONS
American Lung Association. 432 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016. (212)889-3370. <http://www.lungusa.org>.
Emphysema Anonymous, Inc. P.O. Box 3224, Seminole FL 34642. (813)391-9977.
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Building 31, Room 4A21, Bethesda MD 20892. (301)496-4236. <http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov>.
OTHER
Pulmonary Perpectives. The American College of Chest Physicians, 3300 Dundee Road, Northbrook IL 60062.(847) 498-1400. <http://www.chestnet.org>.
RSNA Radiology Info Online. <http://www.radiologyresource.org>. (June 6, 2001).
Debra Novograd, B.S.,R.T.(R)(M)
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Author Info: Debra Novograd B.S.,R.T.(R)(M), The Gale Group Inc., Gale, Detroit, Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health, 2002 |
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