chest · AP
Chest AP (Supine / Portable)
Patient supine on trolley/bed or semi-erect, back against IR.
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How to perform this view
- 01
Explain procedure; remove ECG leads/metal from field where safe.
- 02
Slide IR (in cover) behind patient's back, top 5 cm above shoulders.
- 03
Raise head of bed as much as condition allows (semi-erect preferred).
- 04
Rotate arms internally / abduct to clear scapulae.
- 05
Centre CR 8-10 cm below jugular notch, angle 3-5 deg caudad to be perpendicular to sternum.
- 06
Collimate, place side marker, expose on full inspiration.
Anatomical & patient position
Patient: Patient supine on trolley/bed or semi-erect, back against IR.
Part: MSP centred to IR; arms abducted away from chest; shoulders rolled forward if possible.
Central ray & centring point
Perpendicular to long axis of sternum, 8-10 cm below jugular notch (T7), approx. 3-5 deg caudad.
Exposure factors
kVp
85-100 kVp
mAs
2-3 mAs
SID
100-180 cm (maximum achievable, record SID)
IR size
35 x 43 cm landscape or portrait
Grid
Portable grid optional for large patients
Respiration
Full inspiration (or time with ventilator)
Clinical indications
- ICU / bedside patients unable to stand
- Line, tube and catheter position check
- Trauma chest assessment
- Monitoring of effusion, oedema, pneumonia
Contraindications & precautions
- Pregnancy (relative) - confirm LMP / 10-day rule, justify exposure and shield where possible
- Unsecured lines or unstable spine - move only with staff assistance
Structures shown & evaluation criteria
- Lung fields apices to bases
- Heart (magnified compared to PA)
- Position of ET tube, CVC, NG tube
- Clavicles at same level (no rotation)