A female client is scheduled to have a chest radiograph. Which of the following questions is of most importance to the nurse assessing this client?
A. “Is there any possibility that you could be pregnant?”
B. “Are you wearing any metal chains or jewelry?”
C. “Can you hold your breath easily?”
D. “Are you able to hold your arms above your head?”
Correct Answer: A. “Is there any possibility that you could be pregnant?”
The most important item to ask about is the client’s pregnancy status because pregnant women should not be exposed to radiation. The risk of side effects of an X-ray while the client is pregnant is extremely minimal, but it is always important to protect the developing fetus from harm.
Option B: Clients are also asked to remove any chains or metal objects that could interfere with obtaining an adequate film. The client may be asked to strip down and wear a hospital gown, or at least remove clothing on the part of the body that needs to be X-rayed.
Option C: A chest radiograph most often is done at full inspiration, which gives optimal lung expansion.
Option D: If a lateral view of the chest is ordered, the client is asked to raise the arms above the head. The client will be asked to stay still so the image will be as clear as possible. This will provide the most accurate image. Most films are done in posterior-anterior view. The X-ray test works by positioning the part of the body being X-rayed between the source of the X-ray and an X-ray detector (such as a film).
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