Chest X-ray (cont.)
Where are chest X-ray's performed?
Chest X-rays are one the most commonly ordered radiology tests. Once they are
ordered by a physician, they can be performed in hospitals, emergency rooms,
outpatient radiology facilities, and some doctors offices.
What are the risks of a chest X-ray?
Chest X-rays expose the patient briefly to a minimum amount of radiation. Any
radiation exposure has some risk to the tissues of the body. The radiation
exposure in a chest X-ray is minimized by the type of X-ray high-speed film,
which does not require as much radiation exposure as in the past. The radiology
technician is guided by technique standards which have been established by
national and international guidelines. These guidelines are designed and
reviewed by both the Department of Health and Human Services and national and
international radiology protection councils.
Women, who are pregnant, especially in early pregnancy, should notify their
physicians, as the fetus is at risk for harm with any radiology technique.
X-rays are typically avoided in pregnant patients unless absolutely necessary,
in which case, the patient's abdomen is covered with a special gown to deflect
the radiation from the fetus.
What are reasons for ordering chest X-rays?
There are many reasons why doctors order chest X-rays.
Frequently, they are ordered for symptoms of shortness of breath,
cough, or
chest pain. However,
there are many other signs and symptoms that may prompt a doctor to order chest
X-rays. They may also be done as a routine check examination.
Sometimes chest X-rays are required before operations to see if there is any
evidence of heart or lung disease that may need to be addressed before the
procedure. This is called a pre-operative chest X-ray (or pre-op chest X-ray
requirement).
Next: Who can interpret chest X-rays? »
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