Able to identify life-threatening conditions such as pneumothorax, intraperitoneal air, pulmonary edema, pneumonia, and aortic dissection.
Often normal in a pt with an acute pulmonary embolus.
Repeat in 4-6 weeks in a pt with an acute pneumonic process to document resolution of the radiographic infiltrate.
Used in conjunction with the physical examination to support the diagnosis of congestive heart failure. The diagnosis of heart failure is supported by findings of cardiomegaly, cephalization, Kerley B lines, and pleural effusions.
Repeat frequently in intubated pts to examine endotracheal tube position and the possibility of barotrauma.
Features of alveolar or airspace disease 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.