Information ⬇
- Can be obtained quickly and should be part of the standard evaluation for pts with cardiopulmonary complaints (Fig. 2-1).
- Is able to identify life-threatening conditions such as pneumothorax, intraperitoneal air, pulmonary edema, pneumonia, and aortic dissection.
- Is most often normal in a pt with an acute pulmonary embolus.
- Should be repeated in 4-6 weeks in a pt with an acute pneumonic process to document resolution of the radiographic infiltrate.
- Is used in conjunction with the physical examination to support the diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Radiographic findings supporting the diagnosis of heart failure include cardiomegaly, cephalization, Kerley B lines, and pleural effusions.
- Should be repeated frequently in intubated pts to examine endotracheal tube position and the possibility of barotrauma.
- Helps to identify alveolar or airspace disease. Radiographic features of such diseases include inhomogeneous, patchy opacities and air-bronchograms.
- Helps to document the free-flowing nature of pleural effusions. Decubitus views should be obtained to exclude loculated pleural fluid prior to attempts to extract such fluid.
Outline ⬆