Chapter 14: Immobilization Techniques
Adler: Introduction to Radiologic and Imaging Sciences and Patient Care, 7th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. All of the following are examples of simple immobilization techniques except
a. wrapping a child in a sheet (mummy wrap).
b. using a positioning sponge.
c. laying a sandbag across the patient’s anatomy.
d. using a Velcro strap to stabilize the anatomy.
ANS: A
The simplest immobilization techniques involve the use of a positioning sponge to support the
anatomic area of interest or gently laying a sandbag across a patient’s forearm to minimize
shaking caused by patient anxiety. A “mummy wrap” is regarded as a more complex
technique.
REF: p. 154
2. Patient immobilization is a critical part of achieving optimum image quality. Even the
smallest, undetectable involuntary motion can degrade the final image. Effective methods to
reduce the amount of patient motion include
a. giving clear, concise instructions to the patient before the exposure.
b. assessing the amount of patient cooperation you can expect and making
adjustments in immobilization.
c. explaining how important it is to hold still during the exposure so that a good
N R I G B.C M
image can be obtained. U S N T O
d. All of the above
ANS: D
One of the most effective means of reducing motion on images is good communication with
the patient. Also required is an accurate assessment of the degree of cooperation the patient is
able to provide.
REF: p. 154
3. Establishing a rapport with a patient contributes greatly to a successful immobilization
exercise. To establish patient rapport, the imaging professional should
a. explain to the patient how important it is hold still and that you will use restraints
to ensure this as part of the exam.
b. pull out all your immobilization tools in front of the patient to show you know
what you are doing.
c. gently tell the patient what you need to accomplish and how you would like to
move forward with the examination.
d. ask for two or three other technologists to come into the room as you begin the
positioning.
ANS: C
, Introduction to Radiologic and Imaging Sciences and Patient Care 7th Edition Adler Test Bank
The patient is often capable of cooperation and would be more than willing to facilitate the
examination if he or she were simply informed of what was going to happen and apprised of
the importance of cooperation in producing an accurate diagnosis. A key component to
effective communication with the patient is the establishment of rapport.
REF: p. 154
4. A patient arrives at the medical imaging department for a facial bones series after being hit in
the head by a softball. The patient comes to you with a cervical collar, but it is apparent that
the collar may not be needed because the patient is turning his head to converse with you as
the examination starts. A professional imaging technologist would
a. remove the cervical collar because it appears to be unnecessary.
b. complete the facial bone images with the collar in place using the positioning
flexibility of your equipment.
c. call the emergency department nurse and ask her to remove the cervical collar.
d. immobilize the patient’s head and then remove the cervical collar so it’s not in the
image.
ANS: B
In many instances, examining the skull of a patient wearing a cervical collar or similar
immobilization device is necessary. Because of the presence of the cervical collar, a
radiographer must become versatile in the production of skull images. Instead of being able to
rotate and tilt the head or flex and extend the neck so as to position the patient correctly, the
radiographer must be able to manipulate the radiographic equipment to compensate for the
patient’s lack of mobility.
REF: p. 158
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5. When using sandbags as an immobilization device,
a. refill any sand that leaks out of the bag before the examination begins.
b. make a note for the radiologist, as the sandbag is radiopaque and may leave an
artifact.
c. place the sandbag over the area of interest, so the radiologist knows you used one.
d. weigh the sandbag before using it, to ensure it is not too heavy on the patient.
ANS: B
Sandbags, unlike radiolucent positioning sponges, are radiopaque. As a result, they cannot be
placed in such a way that diagnostic information is obscured within the anatomic area of
interest. They must be placed gently on or against the areas adjacent to the anatomic area of
interest so as not to injure or cause further damage.
REF: p. 156
6. To achieve extreme dorsiflexion of the ankle, the most effective immobilization method uses
a. elastic wraps.
b. tape.
c. a draw sheet.
d. Velcro straps.
ANS: D